Tensions have reached boiling point at the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, as reports confirm that star winger Reuben Garrick has sensationally walked out following a fiery locker room confrontation that has plunged the club into full-blown crisis.
The incident allegedly occurred in the aftermath of Manly’s demoralizing 28-16 defeat to the Cronulla Sharks over the weekend. Sources close to the club say that emotions ran high during the post-match review, with head coach Anthony Seibold singling out individual defensive lapses — including some by Garrick — as key reasons for the loss.
What began as a heated exchange of opinions quickly spiraled into a personal confrontation between Garrick, Seibold, and a small group of senior players. Witnesses claim that Garrick, visibly frustrated, clapped back at what he saw as “scapegoating,” accusing the coaching staff of inconsistent messaging and a lack of leadership.
According to one source:
“Reuben stood up, told the coach he’s had enough of the blame game, and stormed out. He didn’t even wait for the meeting to end. You could’ve heard a pin drop.”
🚪 Garrick Leaves Training — No Show at Recovery Session
The club’s training facility in Narrabeen was abuzz on Monday morning, but Garrick was notably absent. The winger did not report for the scheduled recovery session and has reportedly turned off his phone, leaving both the coaching staff and teammates in the dark regarding his status.
Although officially listed as “on personal leave” by club media officers, it’s understood that Garrick’s exit may be longer-term if tensions aren’t resolved quickly.
This public blow-up has exposed what insiders say is a growing fracture within the Sea Eagles’ camp. Some players reportedly back Garrick’s frustrations, citing long-standing issues with unclear tactics, rotating positional assignments, and poor communication between the coaching staff and the playing group.
Manly’s form in recent weeks has been patchy at best, slipping outside the top eight and drawing the ire of fans and commentators alike. With pressure mounting on Seibold, the club now finds itself not only battling for results on the field but fighting to keep the locker room intact.
Since joining the Sea Eagles in 2019, Garrick has been a cornerstone of their attack. Known for his speed, aerial threat, and reliable goal-kicking, he has frequently stepped up in the absence of injured stars like Tom Trbojevic. In 2021, he became the first player in NRL history to score 300 points in a single season.
Garrick’s current contract runs through the end of 2027, having signed a lucrative extension just last year after turning down offers from rival clubs. His departure — whether temporary or permanent — would leave a gaping hole in Manly’s backline and goal-kicking arsenal.
🤐 Club Remains Tight-Lipped
The Sea Eagles have yet to issue a detailed statement, with a spokesperson saying only:
“Reuben has been given time away from training for personal reasons. The club is working internally to address the matter.”
Head coach Seibold is expected to face the media later this week, where he will undoubtedly be pressed for clarity.
Manly’s leadership group is believed to be working behind the scenes to mediate the situation, with senior players reportedly attempting to convince Garrick to return. However, unless a major reconciliation effort is made, the club could face losing one of its most consistent and beloved players — either temporarily or to another club.
For now, Manly fans are left stunned and anxious, watching a promising season teeter dangerously close to implosion. The club’s next fixture against the Penrith Panthers could be a defining moment — not just on the ladder, but in determining whether the Sea Eagles can hold themselves together at all.
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