LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Reports suggest that Lachie Galvin's decision to reject a lucrative new deal with the Tigers was not due to money, but rather a lack of confidence in Benji Marshall's coaching ability.
The Tigers offered the 19-year-old a five-year extension worth up to $5.5 million, but Galvin and his management declined, wanting to explore other options.
This has left Marshall facing a dilemma regarding Galvin's role, the development of other young players like Latu Fainu, and the impact on team morale.
The Tigers made a statement announcing Galvin's departure at the end of his current contract, despite offering him the largest contract in the club's history.
The club expressed disappointment but emphasized their focus on winning games during Galvin's remaining time at the club.
Galvin's management, led by agent Isaac Moses, reportedly advised the Tigers not to make an offer as the young player had already decided to leave.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Galvin's concerns about Marshall's coaching included doubts about his ability to help him reach his full potential.
Galvin reportedly believed that Marshall's appointment of former teammates as coaches limited his growth as a player.
It is also suggested that Moses, Galvin's agent, has questioned Marshall's coaching abilities in the past, indicating a strained relationship between the two.
Overall, it is clear that Galvin's decision to move on from the Tigers was not primarily driven by financial factors, but rather by a lack of faith in Marshall's coaching and concerns about his potential for development at the club.
This situation presents a challenge for Marshall as he navigates Galvin's departure, the development of other young players, and the impact on team dynamics as they move forward.