2018 NRL Rookie of the year David Fifita will not return to the field this season after having his third ankle surgery. The 25-year-old Gold Coast Titans forward is currently in recovery and focused on rehabilitation as he aims to regain his fitness. Despite this nasty injury, Fifita is still contracted to the Gold Coast until the end of 2026.
Fifita, who is having a down season himself, has only played in nine games this season. His injury concerns have long haunted him over his five-year career with the Titans. This has led to excessive speculation about his future with the club. According to NRL.com, the Titans have recently given Fifita’s management the green light to seek out offers from other clubs for the 2024 season.
Ever since, Wayne Bennett, who was coach of the Brisbane Broncos in 2018, has been credited with giving Fifita his NRL debut. Now, he’s keen to bring him on board at South Sydney. Bennett made it clear, in front of the microphones, that he wanted the Rabbitohs to negotiate with not just Fifita’s management but the Titans too.
Des Hasler, the Titans’ coach, addressed media inquiries regarding Fifita’s situation but refrained from discussing specifics about his future.
“Well, David at the moment is making his way back, as you know, from ankle surgery. So he will come back from that and he will go into rehab. He’s signed for next year. So he’s signed for ‘26.” – Des Hasler
The Titans would need to contribute a percentage of Fifita’s significant salary – just over $900,000 for 2024 – if he departs the club. That has to be up in the air considering the unknowns concerning his contract. This makes negotiations more tricky as other teams put forth their best offer for the dynamic playmaking center.
The Titans have certainly made up for the past rocky ride with Fifita over the years. His tenure at the club has been overshadowed by positive performances and debilitating injuries. Now, the team’s management is doing their best to manage this new challenge while ensuring that they focus on what’s best for fans.
Like any good reporter, recent events had reporters lined up to grill Hasler. They were keen to ascertain whether the club had let Fifita shop around for other options. In response, Hasler stated:
“We don’t discuss retention on this platform.” – Des Hasler
The attitude toward the Titans’ past three game has fostered anger and outrage among fans as well. One reporter highlighted the crowd dynamics at a recent match, noting that a majority were supporters of the opposing team, stating:
“Mate, have a look at the crowd out there tonight. They’re all Warriors fans. It’s embarrassing.” – Reporter
David Fifita and the Gold Coast Titans have been under the muzzle as they manage his return to health. Fans and analysts alike will be wondering about his future with other clubs if he becomes available.
