“I Care Deeply”: Bulldogs Captain Marcus Bontempelli Addresses Contract Worries

Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli has downplayed concerns surrounding his contract as fans eagerly await confirmation of his new deal.

Bontempelli, whose current contract runs until the end of 2025, expressed that he feels “confident and comfortable” about extending his stay at the club, with his attention now directed towards enhancing his performance ahead of the upcoming season.

Following a disappointing elimination final defeat to Hawthorn in 2024, the midfielder acknowledges his responsibility to improve, aiming to elevate the team’s performance and lead them back to success.

“My care for the team’s performance translates into a deep concern for my physical condition and football form, which is where I feel the most pressure,” Bontempelli commented on Wednesday.

“Currently, I feel quite confident and at ease with my game.”

The 29-year-old is also keen to shift focus onto the younger players in the squad, as they vie for positions in the best 22.

“I’m particularly excited to see players like Sam (Darcy) and our younger talent stepping up to push the club positively,” he remarked.

This will allow the 240-game veteran to assist the next wave of talent in their pursuit of the Bulldogs’ third premiership in a century.

“I hope there will come a time when I can take a step back and simply enjoy watching these boys play,” he added.

Regarding his own priorities, while it seems likely he will be sporting the red, white, and blue in the upcoming seasons, Bontempelli’s current focus is on perfecting his game.

“For me, particularly after last season, it’s crucial to make the most of the summer training period,” Bontempelli stated.

“Clearly, we left the finals earlier than intended, so this year I’ve taken my time with contract discussions in the past.”

“This is because my priorities shift during this time of the year.”

“At this point, my emphasis is firmly on performance, ensuring the team is in the best possible shape as we approach the start of the season.”

The Bulldogs have faced criticism for their inability to replicate the success of their 2016 premiership win, particularly given their strong roster. That season, they finished seventh in the regular season before embarking on a remarkable finals run that culminated in a flag.

“To claim I haven’t given contract discussions any thought isn’t entirely accurate, but at the moment it’s not my top priority,” he concluded.

The Bulldogs will kick off their 2025 premiership campaign against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, March 15.