Bronson Xerri’s future at Canterbury Bulldogs clouded after meeting with Phil Gould
Bronson Xerri’s future at Canterbury remains uncertain following his meeting with Bulldogs boss Phil Gould, with the attacking center expected to be dropped for this week’s clash against Canberra.
Xerri met Gould on Sunday morning and the Canterbury senior made the announcement on social media following reports the previous day that the center was unhappy at the club and wanted his immediate release.
Bulldogs center Bronson Xerri.Credit: Getty Images
Xerri has not yet requested any release, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.
He has a contract with the Bulldogs until the end of 2027. However, he is understood to be displeased after being told that Enari Tuala will be named center for Thursday’s game against the Raiders.
Xerri’s management and Gould have been contacted for comment but have not yet responded.
Xerri, 25, attended Canterbury’s on-field session on Sunday morning and has been part of team training throughout the Bulldogs’ bye week after the season opener in Las Vegas.
Xerri has moved to right center this season, with captain Stephen Crichton moving to the left side. Crichton said he spoke to Xerri as soon as he arrived at training on Sunday and was confident the drama surrounding his team-mate would not distract from a promising 2026 season.
“HE [been] I’m at practice today and he still looks the same,” Crichton said. “I know the people upstairs, Gus and Ciro [coach Cameron Ciraldo] We will resolve this and put the club first.
“IT [reports Xerri wanted a release] It surprised me. I didn’t know this. But there are people working in that area who can do what’s right for the club and what’s right for Bronson. We love Bronson here and he has a good relationship with all the guys. “This situation caught a few kids off guard.”
Gould initially denied News Corp’s report that Xerri was unhappy at the club in a post on X on Saturday afternoon, rejecting suggestions that a release request had previously been made.
