Overview

• Two competition sources told the Sydney Morning Herald that Essendon captain Zach Merrett held a face-to-face meeting with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell after the Bombers’ season ended.
• Mitchell declined to confirm any recruitment discussions and directed inquiries to Hawthorn’s list management, saying the club focuses on improving its list.
• Merrett is contracted at Essendon through the end of 2027, and PerthNow reports the Bombers have categorically ruled out trading him.
• Essendon greats Tim Watson and James Hird urged a swift public resolution, with Hird warning of significant brand and on-field consequences if Merrett departs.
• Reports describe Merrett as disillusioned following Essendon’s 15th-place finish; he is nearing a sixth Crichton Medal and has yet to win a final in 251 games.