SIGNING: The Parramatta Eels have Signed Scrum half Nathan Cleary on Two-Year Deal as Potential Backup for Clint Gutherson…

In a surprising move, the Parramatta Eels have signed highly regarded halfback Nathan Cleary on a

two-year deal, reinforcing their spine for the 2024 and 2025 NRL seasons. The deal, which was

finalized earlier this week, has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community, as Cleary is

widely considered one of the best scrum halves in the competition.

Cleary, who has been a key figure for the Penrith Panthers for several years, has been brought in by

Parramatta as a potential backup for the Eels’ captain, Clint Gutherson. While the move may raise

eyebrows given Gutherson’s consistent form and leadership, the signing of Cleary is seen as a

strategic play by the Eels to bolster their playmaking depth and give them flexibility in the halves.

### A Masterstroke for Depth

The addition of Cleary gives Parramatta a wealth of options in the halves. With Gutherson having

been the club’s mainstay at fullback and occasionally stepping into the halves when needed,

Cleary’s signing ensures that the team has a top-tier halfback who can step in and manage the game

should Gutherson be unavailable or if coach Brad Arthur decides to rotate his spine for tactical reasons.

Cleary is known for his composure under pressure, his kicking game, and his astute decision-

making, all of which could prove invaluable to the Eels over the course of the season. His ability to

control the tempo of a match with his tactical kicking, coupled with his reputation for creating

opportunities for his teammates, makes him a valuable asset to any club.

This signing also provides the Eels with an insurance policy in the event of injuries to their starting

playmakers. With injuries often playing a crucial role in NRL seasons, having a player of Cleary’s

caliber in reserve adds a layer of security that many teams would envy.

### What Nathan Cleary Brings to the Eels

Cleary’s credentials are well-established. A key architect of Penrith’s dominance over the past few

seasons, Cleary has led his team to two NRL premierships (2021 and 2022), a State of Origin series

win for New South Wales, and has been named the Dally M Halfback of the Year on multiple

occasions. His combination of skill, intelligence, and leadership will undoubtedly raise the level of

the Eels’ playmaking options.

However, one of the most intriguing aspects of this deal is how Cleary will fit into the Eels’ squad

dynamics. While Gutherson is the captain and a reliable fullback, Cleary’s arrival could lead to an

intriguing positional battle or a shift in roles. It remains to be seen whether Cleary will be groomed

as a genuine halfback option or whether he will be used as a utility, given his versatility.

### What This Means for Clint Gutherson

For Clint Gutherson, the signing of Cleary could be seen as both a challenge and a boon. While

Cleary’s arrival might be perceived as a threat to his position, Gutherson has always shown

adaptability and leadership. The opportunity to play alongside a world-class halfback like Cleary

could benefit Gutherson’s game, particularly in terms of refining his own decision-making and

kicking game.

Moreover, the Eels’ long-term vision may involve experimenting with Gutherson in different roles,

allowing Cleary to take on the primary playmaking duties while Gutherson acts as a roaming

playmaker or fullback when necessary.

### Conclusion

This unexpected signing of Nathan Cleary by the Parramatta Eels signals a bold step in their push

for a premiership. While Cleary’s role as a backup for Clint Gutherson may initially raise questions,

it’s clear that the Eels are focused on creating a versatile and deep squad capable of competing at

the highest level. As the 2024 season approaches, this move could prove to be a masterstroke that

strengthens the club’s playmaking ranks and gives them the depth they need to contend for the

NRL title in the coming years.