Brisbane Broncos forward Jordan Riki is expected to leave the club at the end of next season due to a fractured relationship with coach Michael Maguire, according to reports from Triple M’s Sunday Sin Bin. The international forward is one of 12 Broncos players entering the final year of their contracts and preparing to hit the open market on November 1.
Coaching Friction Sparks Exit Rumors
The relationship between Riki and Maguire has deteriorated significantly behind closed doors. According to broadcaster Ben Dobbin on Triple M, the coaching dynamic has been described as “oil and water” because the two figures simply do not mix. Dobbin reported that the club is already resigned to losing the forward and confident he will finish his career elsewhere.
Reporter Brent Read confirmed on the same program that the Broncos are growing increasingly skeptical about retaining Riki beyond his current deal. Once November 1 arrives, rival clubs will have the legal clearance to officially negotiate with the edge forward for future seasons.
Rival Clubs Circle for Riki
Speculation has already begun regarding Riki’s next landing spot once his Brisbane tenure concludes. Early whispers linked the forward to the Melbourne Storm for the 2028 season, though both the Storm and the Broncos categorically denied those rumors, according to Dobbin.
Instead, the New Zealand Warriors have emerged as a primary destination to bring the local product home. Dobbin noted that the Warriors are considered a strong chance to sign Riki as a direct replacement for veteran back-rower Kurt Capewell once the former teammate eventually retires.
Did you know? Jordan Riki is one of 12 Brisbane Broncos players whose contracts expire at the end of next season, making November 1 a critical date for the club’s roster management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Jordan Riki expected to leave the Broncos?
According to reports on Triple M’s Sunday Sin Bin, Riki is expected to depart due to a difficult relationship with head coach Michael Maguire that has been described as not seeing eye-to-eye.
When can rival clubs negotiate with Jordan Riki?
Riki hits the open market on November 1 of next season, at which point rival teams are permitted to formally approach him regarding his playing future.
Which clubs have been linked to the forward?
While rumors regarding the Melbourne Storm were categorically denied by both clubs, the New Zealand Warriors have been floated as a potential destination to bring Riki home.
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