Shocking information: Eel’s confirm, Clinton Gutherson will miss entire 2025-26 season – ESPN.. read more.

 

**BREAKING: Eels Confirm Clinton Gutherson to Miss Entire 2025–26 NRL Season**

💥 *Star Fullback Sidelined in Devastating Blow to Parramatta’s Premiership Hopes*

 

**Sydney, NSW – July 5, 2025** — In a shocking and heartbreaking development for the Parramatta Eels and NRL fans alike, **Clinton Gutherson**, the club’s inspirational captain and star fullback, has been **ruled out for the entire 2025–26 season**, the team confirmed today via an ESPN report.

 

Known affectionately as “King Gutho,” the 30-year-old has been the **heartbeat of the Eels** for nearly a decade — both on and off the field. His absence is a crushing blow to the club’s finals aspirations.

 

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### ⚠️ Injury Confirmed – Club Statement

 

According to the club, Gutherson suffered a **severe ACL injury** during a training session earlier this week, which will require surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process. The expected recovery timeline extends beyond the 2025–26 NRL season.

 

> “This is a difficult day for the club,” said Eels Head Coach Brad Arthur. “Clint is more than a player — he’s our leader, our role model. But knowing his character, we’re confident he’ll bounce back stronger than ever.”

 

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### 🏉 Gutherson’s Impact and Legacy

 

Gutherson has been one of the **NRL’s most consistent and versatile performers**, renowned for his tireless work ethic, elite fitness, and ability to lift the team when it matters most. Since joining the Eels in 2016, he has:

 

* Made over **180 appearances**

* Scored more than **70 tries**

* Captained the team to multiple finals campaigns

* Been selected for **State of Origin** honors

 

His leadership on the field and his dedication off it have made him a fan favorite and an irreplaceable figure at the club.

 

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### 🔁 Who Steps Up Now?

 

With Gutherson sidelined, the Eels face tough questions about who will fill the void at fullback and take over leadership duties. Early candidates include:

 

* **Dylan Brown**, who could take on a more central playmaking role

* **Maika Sivo** and **Sean Russell**, who may see expanded responsibilities in the backline

* **New recruits** or **junior talent** could also be called up for depth

 

There are also whispers that the Eels may explore the **transfer market** for a short-term replacement to help keep their 2025–26 campaign alive.

 

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### 🗣️ League-Wide Reaction

 

The NRL community has reacted with shock and sympathy to the news:

 

> “Tough loss for the Eels. Gutho’s a warrior. Wishing him a full recovery,” tweeted former teammate Blake Ferguson.

> “One of the game’s best leaders down for the season — massive blow,” said a Fox League analyst.

> “The game will miss watching King Gutho in full flight,” fans echoed across social media.

 

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### ⏳ Recovery and the Road Ahead

 

Though devastated, Gutherson released a brief statement through the club, thanking fans for their support and vowing to come back stronger:

 

> “I’m gutted, but I’ve been through setbacks before. I’ll be supporting the boys every step of the way and doing everything to be ready for 2026.”

 

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### 📣 Final Word

 

The Parramatta Eels will now face one of their toughest challenges in recent memory — navigating a full season without their spiritual leader. But if Clinton Gutherson’s career has proven anything, it’s that setbacks only set the stage for comebacks.

 

**Until then, the blue and gold faithful will rally, and #KingGutho will fight on.** 💛💙

 

*Stay with us for ongoing updates on Gutherson’s recovery, team changes, and the Eels’ campaign without their captain.*