LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Injury-Hit Panthers Veteran Contemplates Retirement
As he approaches the final year of his contract with the Penrith Panthers, reports indicate that veteran forward Matthew Eisenhuth is considering retiring before the 2026 NRL season begins.
Known for his resilience, Eisenhuth has been an integral member of the Panthers for over five years. Prior to his time in Penrith, he played 70 first-grade matches with the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers.
While he may not be as recognized as teammates like Liam Martin, Moses Leota, or Lindsay Smith, Eisenhuth holds a respected position among the squad. He even captained the team in a match against the Canterbury Bulldogs during the current campaign.
Turning 34 next year, Eisenhuth is reportedly considering retirement due to ongoing injury issues. This decision could impact the Panthers significantly at the start of the next season.
"The first one - I was playing a lot that year - probably hurt the most but once you have a little bit of time to reflect on it, my perspective is that you don't get to be a part of teams like this too often," he expressed in 2024.
"After that one you sit back, reflect and since then we've gone on and won two more and I've played big parts in all three years.
"I don't know how many NRL games I've played across those three years and we've won comps. As much as you'd want to be a part of them, I feel like I've played my part in helping the boys getting them there."