Parramatta Eels back-rower Isaiah Papaliโi has once again refused to confirm his future ahead of the clubโs sudden-death semi-final against the Canberra Raiders.
Papaliโi has signed a contract to join Wests Tigers from next year, but reports have grown in frequency and volume in recent months that he may decide to back-flip on the deal given the coaching change and constant instability that has shrouded the Tigers this year.
But despite the prospect of this Fridayโs encounter being his last game in the blue and gold, Papaliโi still refused to confirm he would join the Tigers at the seasonโs end during an interview with Fox Sportsโ Luke Doherty.
โFor me personally, I want to make sure I play every game like itโs my last,โ Papaliโi said.
โBut I also want to do my job and ensure we still have another week ahead of us.
โFor me, what we have at hand at the moment is a massive opportunity and itโs do-or-die, so Iโm kind of focused right now on this Friday and what I can do for the club here and now.โ
When pressed further on the matter, Papaliโi admitted he could understand the frustration of Tigers fans, but he wouldnโt be rushed into any ill-conceived statement.
โEveryone wants to hear (that Iโm coming), but I canโt say anything just now. Iโm really focused on the 2022 season, thatโs what Iโm 100% focused on.
โI canโt really comment on (the situation), weโll just leave it at that.
โOnce this year is done I can sit down with my manager, talk through those things and figure out whatโs going on next season.โ
When asked about his communication with new coaches Tim Sheens and Benji Marshall, Papaliโi was quick to praise the duo and their long term vision, despite being non-committal.
โ(They spoke about) their direction moving forward and what kind of coaching role Benji would have and how Tim would help him. It was straightforward, but nice to talk to them and hear what they had to say and what theyโre looking for โ not only this season but in the future.โ
Itโs still hard to tell just how much of a role the Eels are playing in any possible indecision, but the gun back-rower was quick to assert that Brad Arthur wasnโt trying to influence or undermine the deal.
โBrad understands everyone has their own journey and what my journey is, heโs been supportive of whatever decision I make,โ he said.
