Overview

• Zach Merrett told broadcasters he felt “a bit of shame” and apologised to Bombers fans, stopping short of lodging a trade request and acknowledging uncertainty about his future.
• Merrett said he has had constant, supportive dialogue with coach Brad Scott, CEO Craig Vozzo and board member Andrew Welsh.
• He previously met Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell to explore a move, a revelation that caught Essendon off guard.
• Essendon maintains it will not trade its captain, who is contracted through the end of 2027, as scrutiny and internal tensions continue.
• Club leadership shifted as president David Barham resigned immediately and Andrew Welsh was elevated to president, with any player-movement resolution likely during the Oct 6–15 trade period.