The Parramatta Eels have reportedly informed Joash Papali'i that he can explore options with other clubs following his change of heart regarding Ronald Volkman. With Jarome Luai slated to join the team in 2027, the Eels now have an excess of playmakers.
Last month, reports indicated that discussions over a deal for Volkman in 2027 had collapsed, suggesting he might soon depart the club. Recently, he acknowledged that he would likely need to find a new team, yet coach Jason Ryles indicated that efforts were still underway to retain him.
In 2026, Volkman secured his spot in the first grade, shining brightly amid a challenging season for Parramatta. It seems Papali'i now finds himself in an unfavorable position.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Parramatta "won't stand in Papalii's way should he find interest at another club in the NRL or Super League." The 22-year-old has seen action in 26 NRL games since making his Eels debut last season.
Mostly utilized as a bench utility, he received his chance to replace Isaiah Iongi during the latter's injury earlier this season. Recently, however, Api Twidle has been named the starting fullback after Iongi's second injury.
Having fallen down the selection hierarchy, Papali'i is now spending time in NSW Cup. The Eels have promising youngsters Lincoln Fletcher and Lorenzo Talataina emerging, making Papali'i seem excess to their needs.
Regarding Volkman, Ryles remarked last week: "We haven't shut the door on that yet, so we're hopeful that we could potentially do something there for next year and possibly the year after. We're currently talking to his management, so we'll just see how we go there."
Volkman expressed his desire to "love to stay at Parramatta," although he felt the club was "heading in a different direction." He shared with AAP, "It's natural (to have a sinking) feeling (when Luai was signed). But at the end of the day it happened and I can't control any of that.
"I can only control how I play on the weekend and how I am around my teammates. That doesn't change. Just because of a signing, I don't drop my bottom lip when I come to training. It is a business for this club. It's not fair on the boys if I just have a sook. I am pretty easy going, chill guy. I am all good."