Billy Slater has shared his thoughts on the Lachlan Galvin situation at the Wests Tigers, expressing concern that it could “derail their season” after a promising start to their campaign.
The 19-year-old made headlines last week when he disclosed that he would not be extending his contract beyond 2027, with the Eels emerging as a potential destination.
What followed was nothing short of turmoil.
From Galvin’s manager Isaac Moses leaking information to the press regarding coach Benji Marshall’s tactics to social media jibes from Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva, the circumstances surrounding the young playmaker have quickly spiralled out of control.
Galvin was dropped from the first-grade team for the traditional Easter Monday match against Parramatta, spending time in reserve grade with the Wests Magpies. However, according to The Sydney Morning Herald, he is expected to make a return for round eight.
Lachlan Galvin in action during the NSW Cup. Getty
While the club insists that Galvin will remain at Concord until his contract expires, many are calling the situation unsustainable, with accusations of bullying surfacing.
On Nine’s Billy Slater Podcast, the rugby league icon was asked about the ongoing turmoil at the club and whether Galvin was at fault.
“I have no idea how this will unfold, but it’s clearly a mess,” Slater commented.
“It’s really unfortunate, as you have a 19-year-old talent caught up in this chaos. I’m not privy to all the details, but it seems like lines of communication have collapsed, turning into public disputes.
“One thing I’m certain of, at 19, you’re not the one making these significant decisions – you’re heavily guided by those around you.”
“I have no idea how it will turn out, but it’s definitely a mess.”
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In their first match following the Galvin revelations, the Tigers lost to the Eels and now find themselves in 12th place with three wins and four losses.
The upcoming month looks particularly challenging, with encounters against title aspirants Melbourne, Cronulla, and a tough Magic Round fixture against the Dragons.
Although it may be premature to dismiss the Tigers’ finals chances, Slater didn’t hesitate to acknowledge that the Galvin saga could have a significant influence.
Wests Tigers young sensation Lachlan Galvin. Getty
“You have to think about the fans, those who have remained loyal during difficult times,” he remarked.
“There’s a footy team in action now with a season fans are looking forward to. They have hope of reaching the finals for the first time since 2011, and now this drama has surfaced.
“As a Wests Tigers supporter, I would be feeling disappointed about the current situation. This could certainly hinder their season and overshadow their on-field efforts.
“You’ve got a standout player sidelined due to a political dispute – this isn’t a question of form or skill, it’s about differing perspectives. It’s like any relationship; once communication fails, it’s doomed.”
Galvin is anticipated to feature in the upcoming clash against Cronulla on Sunday.
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