Tom Trbojevic Opens Up About Retirement Reflections and Shares Frustrations Over Centre Position Shift

Tom Trbojevic has openly expressed his frustration over being moved to centre as Manly aims to tackle his ongoing injury concerns, while also revealing he has pondered his future in the sport.

The Sea Eagles currently find themselves in 10th position on the ladder, with a recent defeat to the Titans two weeks ago putting the club under scrutiny.

There are reports that coach Anthony Seibold may be facing pressure, with names like Michael Ennis and Matt Ballin speculated as potential successors, while Trbojevic has been permanently reassigned from fullback to centre.

During a segment on Nine’s 100% Footy, Trbojevic candidly spoke about how he felt upon learning of the positional change.

“It would be untruthful to say I wasn’t disappointed to receive that news… I’ve been playing fullback at this club for a long time, and I love that role, but I’ve come to terms with it for now,” he explained.

“I completely understand the rationale behind the decision, especially with someone like Lehi (Hopoate) performing exceptionally well this year. So, I totally get it and I’m genuinely looking forward to the chance to play centre this week.”

When Paul Gallen queried whether the shift was to manage his workload, Trbojevic concurred.

“I think that’s part of the reasoning behind the decision. They’ve obviously discussed it and concluded that’s what they believe is best for the team, and I’m more than happy to do what’s best for the team,” he stated.

“I just want to get back out there, playing well, winning games, and contributing towards the end of the season.”

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The decision to reposition Trbojevic stemmed from Seibold’s seven-minute individual meetings with each player, during which some received the feedback less than favourably, as reported.

The representative player hinted that those reports may hold some truth.

“Following any honesty session like that, it’s likely there will be players who aren’t feeling fantastic, myself included,” he remarked.

“There are things you hear from a coach that can be tough to digest, but it’s necessary to hear them.

“I think everyone has come to terms with the feedback received, and now it’s about taking action—that’s what needs to occur.”

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During his frank exchange, Trbojevic was questioned by Phil Gould regarding his mental state concerning ongoing injuries and whether retirement had crossed his mind.

The Manly star admitted, “You do start to question if what you’re doing is right.”

“Occasionally, thoughts of retirement do surface, but my love for rugby league is what fuels my motivation. I want to be successful, but those thoughts do arise,” he acknowledged.

Trbojevic expressed hope, stating, “I’d like to believe I still have a few years left in me,” to which Gould suggested he might have six or seven seasons ahead.

“I’d love to play for another six or seven years, but I understand I haven’t been on the field enough lately to confidently claim that,” he added.

Amidst a series of probing questions, Trbojevic was also asked about Daly Cherry-Evans and his future with the club.

Much speculation around Cherry-Evans’ impending departure has been tied to Manly’s recent performance slump.

However, Trbojevic dismissed that notion.

“It’s not connected to our performance. I’ve played alongside Chez for quite a while, and when he told us he wouldn’t be staying, it was a bit disheartening because we truly value his presence at the club,” he clarified.

“The reasons for our struggles have nothing to do with that decision; everyone has moved on. We’ve signed a new halfback (Jamal Fogarty) and are laser-focused on securing wins.”