Melbourne superstar Christian Petracca has become “disgruntled” and “disillusioned” with the club and could be seeking a trade out at season’s end, according to 9News Melbourne’s Tom Morris.
It follows the 2021 premiership star suffering terrifying season ending injuries against Collingwood back in June, admitting members of his family were left frustrated at the club’s handling of his situation
Petracca had surgery immediately to repair four broken ribs, lacerations to the spleen and a punctured lung after an incident in the Demons’ 38-point loss to the Pies in round 13.
Petracca went back on to the field and played until he was eventually removed from the match and rushed to hospital, where the extent of his injuries were revealed.
His family, at the time, were reportedly disappointed and frustrated that Petracca was even allowed back on the field with those injuries.
Now, it seems the tensions have boiled over, with Morris reporting that if the 28-year-old had the chance, he would get out of the Demons as soon as possible.
“Christian Petracca is disgruntled and particularly disillusioned with the club’s direction,” Morris said on 9News Melbourne on Monday night.
“Petracca’s a pro, he’s desperate for another flag, but he has become increasingly unhappy in the wake of his season-ending spleen injury.
“His disenchantment – which is not directed at the coach, it must be said – has now become so palpable that if he was out of contract, the four-time All-Australian would likely ask for a trade tomorrow.”
However, with five years left on his contract, no sudden moves will be made from either party.
“But, the reality is he has five years left on his contract, and it’s basically impossible to see how the Dees would agree to let their best player go, even if he did demand a trade,” Morris said.
“For now, teammates are aware of his frustrations, some even share them, key officials are aware too but standing firm he will not be traded under any circumstances.”
But don’t rule out natural interest for the 2021 Norm Smith Medallist from rival clubs.
“One rival club also understands how unsettled Petracca is, and they’re watching the situation closely,” he said.
Melbourne went down to Port Adelaide by two points in round 22 and will face off against the Suns in the Gold Coast on Saturday afternoon.
The Dees have slumped to 13th on the ladder, as finals seem almost out of reach with two rounds to go.
