CLEARY Locks IN JANUARY 5 PRE-SEASON RETURN AFTER EUROPEAN HOLIDAY WITH FOWLER
Penrith Panthers superstar Nathan Cleary has confirmed he will return to the training paddock on January 5, wrapping up an off-season filled with relaxation, travel across Europe and a heartfelt volunteering stint alongside Matildas partner Mary Fowler.
The Kangaroos and Panthers halfback has spent the past several weeks exploring the continent with Fowler, taking a well-earned break after another gruelling NRL campaign that saw Penrith push for a historic fourth consecutive premiership. While the trip was largely focused on unwinding, the power couple also made time to give back, volunteering at a Foodbank in the United Kingdom during their travels.
Cleary’s return date comes as a relief to Panthers fans and coaching staff, who will welcome the 26-year-old back to their pre-season preparations as they aim to go one better in 2026 after falling short in last year’s grand final. The playmaker, who has been the heartbeat of Penrith’s dominant era since making his NRL debut in 2016, will rejoin teammates who have already commenced early training blocks ahead of the new season.
The off-season break marks a rare chance for Cleary to step away from the intense spotlight that comes with being one of the NRL’s most high-profile players. Alongside Fowler – who has also enjoyed a break following the Matildas’ successful international schedule – he has documented snippets of their European adventure, giving fans a glimpse into their time exploring cities, trying local cuisines and connecting with communities through their volunteer work.
Penrith’s pre-season preparations are already in full swing, with the club recently announcing its train and trial squad featuring a mix of journeymen and emerging “sons of guns” looking to earn a spot in the first-grade line-up. As the transfer market continues to shift across the NRL, Cleary’s confirmed return provides stability for the Panthers as they build their squad around their marquee playmaker.
With his focus set to shift back to rugby league in the new year, Cleary will be keen to hit the ground running in January, working to refine his game and lead Penrith’s charge for another shot at premiership glory in 2026.
