Marcus Windhager, the 22-year-old midfielder, is still unsigned going into the 2026 season. This has been leading to further discontent among St Kilda supporters about his future at the club. The Saints have had Windhager on a four-year UDFA contract for some time. After reading the tea leaves on these recent developments, it sure sounds like he’s beginning to explore Plan B.
On Tuesday, Windhager posted a series of photos and videos on social media, accompanied by Paul Simon’s 1975 hit “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.” AFL commentators were the first to react to this post. Dale Thomas went so far as to bring it up on his T4Africa segment “The Agenda Setters.” The cryptic post has ignited panic among followers. Either way, they’re concerned that Windhager already has one foot out the door with plans to leave St Kilda.
Now St Kilda finds themselves in a greasy spot as they play the waiting game for Windhager’s John Hancock to trickle in. The club should be fighting tooth and nail to keep him — especially considering that he’s a valuable dual ball-winner/tagger. Windhager could be on his way out due to interest from other clubs. The Roos and Demons have long been the most keen suitors to land the young midfielder.
Prominent voices within the AFL community, including Luke Hodge, Caroline Wilson and others, pointed out what was happening to Windhager. Their great conversations shone a much-needed spotlight on this serious issue. Consequences of his recent social media outburst and how this all affects St Kilda’s upcoming list management decisions. Stephen Silvagni, the list boss at St Kilda, appreciates the immediacy of Windhager’s contract situation. He understands it’s important to lock down Windhager’s devotion.
Given Windhager’s lack of commitment so far, St Kilda fans are getting more worried. The club has recently celebrated the long-term commitment of young star Mattaes Phillipou, who has signed on until the end of 2028. Supporters are hoping to see Windhager do the same. He has been talked about in the same breath as Phillipou and other possible draft or trade targets that St Kilda is trying to hold off or lure.
Underfoot, Windhager’s talent truly shines bright, applying incessant pressure to St Kilda. As they work to navigate the intricacies of player contracts, recruitment strategies, the clock keeps on ticking with these constant negotiations. As clubs compete for his signature, the heat is on from all sides for Windhager and St Kilda to reach a satisfactory outcome without obvious friction.
