An AFL great has delivered a striking forecast concerning the future of Lachie Neale, suggesting this season might represent the superstar midfielder's concluding chapter with the Brisbane Lions. This bold prediction emerges amidst intense speculation following Neale's highly publicised marriage breakdown, which has cast a shadow over his professional trajectory.
Lloyd's Insight on Neale's Potential Departure
Former Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd has articulated his belief that Neale could make a return to Western Australia by the season's end. The two-time Brownlow Medallist is poised to enter 2026 as an unrestricted free agent, a status that has amplified scrutiny surrounding his personal life, particularly his split from his wife Jules.
'It sounds like he's going to be the last year he plays for the Brisbane Lions, to get back to be closer to his family in WA,' Lloyd stated during an interview on 3AW. This commentary underscores the growing narrative that family considerations may drive Neale's career decisions in the near future.
Background of Neale's Personal and Professional Challenges
Lachie Neale, aged 32, relinquished his role as co-captain of the Brisbane Lions in January after publicly acknowledging he had 'let my family down.' This admission followed allegations of an affair with a family friend, which Neale addressed with a sincere apology: 'I have let my family down and I apologise for my actions.'
In the aftermath, Jules Neale has relocated to Perth with the couple's two young children, while Neale has settled into an apartment in Brisbane. He is currently preparing for the Lions' premiership defence, aiming to maintain focus amidst the personal turmoil.
Professionalism Amidst Personal Turmoil
Matthew Lloyd has emphasised that Neale's on-field performance is unlikely to be significantly impacted by the off-field distractions. He praised Neale's professionalism, describing the situation as a 'massive storm' but expressing confidence in the player's ability to concentrate on team duties.
'He's a professional. Players are very good at moving on. There's been a massive storm around him, but players are very good at being able to [focus on the team],' Lloyd remarked. He further predicted that 'Neale is going to do his thing. He's going to get 25 to 30 touches a week.'
Potential Risks for Brisbane's Season Start
However, Lloyd issued a caution regarding the real danger for the Brisbane Lions, which lies in their early-season performance. 'It's more what happens early in the season. Lachie Neale would want them to be winning games early,' he explained. 'Otherwise, we are going to be talking a lot about the distraction.'
Lloyd also supported the decision to remove the captaincy from Neale, asserting that 'Taking the captaincy off him was the right move because you lose respect.' This move is seen as a strategic step to mitigate any negative impact on team dynamics.
Contrasting Perspectives from Coaching Staff
While Lloyd casts doubt over Neale's long-term future in Queensland, Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan has adopted a more measured approach. Fagan expressed hope for Neale's continued presence at the club but acknowledged the possibility of a move.
'I hope he stays and plays with us. But if he chooses to move back to Perth because he needs to be close to his children, then he'll do that with our blessing,' Fagan commented last month. 'We're not going to hold anyone to ransom. We'll just go along with the flow on that.'
West Coast and Fremantle Interest Fuels Rumours
Adding fuel to the speculation of a Western Australian homecoming, West Coast coach Andrew McQualter has indicated that his club is 'open' to recruiting Neale. Fremantle has also been linked to the midfielder, intensifying rumours about a potential return to his home state.
Currently, the Brisbane Lions remain premiership favourites, with Neale continuing to serve as a central figure in their midfield. Nevertheless, with his contract set to expire and his family now based in Perth, persistent questions about his future linger.
If Matthew Lloyd's prediction proves accurate, 2026 may indeed mark the final chapter of Lachie Neale's illustrious career with the Brisbane Lions, closing a significant era for both the player and the club.
