In a twist that has rocked the NRL world, Kalyn Ponga, the face of the Newcastle Knights, is reportedly on the verge of walking away from the club — and possibly the code — leaving fans stunned and club officials scrambling.

According to a Sydney Morning Herald investigation, the 27-year-old fullback is “seriously considering” an early release from his contract, which runs through to the end of 2027 and is worth a staggering $1.4 million per season. The reason? Ponga allegedly feels he is “wasting his prime years” in a Newcastle side that has failed to deliver on its potential.

Sources close to the club reveal that Ponga has engaged a New Zealand-based rugby union agent, raising speculation that he may switch codes — and even eye a place with the legendary All Blacks.

“There’s been a cloud over my head as to what I’m doing with my allegiance,” Ponga admitted in a past interview. “It’s who I am… the values and morals embedded in me through my uncles and my Dad.”

If true, Ponga could be willing to walk away from $2.8 million — the remaining amount on his contract — and head either to another NRL franchise or leap into rugby union altogether.

Shopping Around Europe?

On NRL 360, seasoned journalist Brent Read claimed a New Zealand agent has already begun “shopping Kalyn around Europe,” even without formal approval from his camp.

“He’s on the radar of European rugby clubs,” Read said. “His name has been mentioned by this rebel rugby competition going on right now.”

While Ponga’s management has not officially commented, the timing is curious — especially as the Knights face mounting pressure and reports suggest head coach Adam O’Brien could be sacked by year-end if the team misses the finals.

A Franchise in Crisis

The looming departure of Ponga comes at a critical moment for the Knights. The club recently secured Dylan Brown from the Parramatta Eels on a similar $1.4M per year deal starting next season. If Ponga stays, the duo would soak up a massive $2.8M chunk of the Knights’ salary cap — an unsustainable load for a side outside finals contention.

Insiders suggest that if Ponga leaves, the club may promote Fletcher Sharpe to fullback and seek a new half to partner Brown.

Meanwhile, coach O’Brien, who had a clause automatically extend his tenure to 2027 after finishing in the top 12 last season, is hanging by a thread. SMH reports that even a hefty payout might not save him if Newcastle fails to reach finals in 2025.

All Blacks Dream Still Alive?

Born in Australia but of New Zealand descent, Ponga has never hidden his desire to don the All Blacks jersey. A switch to rugby union at the end of 2025 would give him the 2026 season to adapt — just in time for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, hosted by Australia.

With former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika and other union scouts reportedly watching NRL stars closely, Ponga could become one of the highest-profile code-switchers in recent memory.

There’s also growing buzz around a potential stint in the United Rugby Championship (URC) or Top 14, Europe’s elite rugby leagues. Clubs there are known to pay top dollar for marquee signings, and Ponga’s star power makes him an enticing prospect.

A Divide Within the Knights?

Ponga’s camp insists no formal release has been requested — yet. But with insiders claiming that Newcastle powerbrokers are open to discussions, the writing may already be on the wall.

The situation mirrors past NRL walkouts — notably Sonny Bill Williams — who famously quit mid-season to join rugby union, shocking fans and leaving clubs in damage control.

If history is any guide, these rumblings don’t fade quietly.

Coaching Carousel Begins

As the Ponga drama unfolds, attention also turns to who might replace O’Brien if the axe falls. Names in the mix include:

• Blake Green (current assistant)
• Josh Hannay (Queensland assistant)
• Brad Arthur (former Eels coach)

Both Hannay and Arthur have solid coaching credentials and could be tasked with rebuilding the fractured Knights locker room from 2026 onward.

This News is by Daily Global Diary

In a shocking turn of events, former NFL wide receiver Antonio Brown is now a wanted man in Florida, facing a serious charge of attempted murder with a firearm following a chaotic scene at a charity boxing match in Miami.

The alleged incident, which unfolded on May 16 in the Little Haiti neighborhood, has pushed the once-celebrated football star back into the headlines—this time for all the wrong reasons. According to The Washington Post, local law enforcement has been actively trying to locate the 36-year-old athlete, but Brown has not yet been apprehended.

A judge signed an arrest warrant on Wednesday that not only lists the attempted murder charge but also demands a $10,000 bond. If captured, Brown would be placed under house arrest while awaiting trial. The arrest report reveals that during the charity event, gunshots rang out, prompting an off-duty officer working security to investigate. What followed was a chaotic and dangerous scene.

The officer reportedly witnessed the former Pittsburgh Steelers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wideout involved in a physical fight with another man. While Brown was not in possession of a weapon at the time of his search, two empty shell casings and a firearm holster were discovered at the scene. Multiple eyewitnesses named Brown as the shooter, escalating the gravity of the situation.

The former Super Bowl champion has long been surrounded by controversy. Once a powerhouse on the field, his post-NFL career has been riddled with legal trouble, erratic behavior, and media drama. This latest development, however, marks the most severe allegation to date.

Authorities have not confirmed whether Brown currently has legal representation, and efforts to contact him have reportedly been unsuccessful. The football world watches in disbelief as yet another chapter unfolds in what has become a turbulent and deeply troubling saga.

This incident adds to an already growing list of legal entanglements surrounding the ex-athlete. What began as a promising NFL career may now end in a courtroom, far removed from the roaring stadiums where he once shined.

Thiago Almada, the Argentine attacking midfielder known for his agility and playmaking skills, has seen a significant rise in his net worth, estimated at $5 million as of 2025. This financial growth mirrors his impressive journey through top-tier football clubs and international accolades.

Almada’s career took a pivotal turn when he transferred from Atlanta United to Botafogo in July 2024 for a record-breaking fee of $21 million, potentially rising to $30 million with add-ons. This move not only marked the highest outgoing transfer in MLS history but also underscored his rising market value.

At Botafogo, Almada‘s impact was immediate, contributing to the team’s victories in both the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and the Copa Libertadores in 2024. His performances caught the attention of European clubs, leading to a loan move to Olympique Lyonnais in January 2025. At Lyon, he continues to showcase his talents in Ligue 1, further enhancing his reputation and marketability.

Almada’s salary reflects his professional success. During his time at Atlanta United, he earned a base salary of $1.65 million, with guaranteed compensation reaching $2.33 million. His current contract with Lyon, on loan from Botafogo, includes an estimated gross salary of €3.45 million for the 2024-2025 season.

Beyond club football, Almada has made significant strides on the international stage. He was part of Argentina’s squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making history as the first active MLS player to achieve this feat. His international experience adds to his market value and appeal to top clubs worldwide.

Almada’s journey from the streets of Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, to international football arenas exemplifies determination and talent. His growing net worth is a testament to his hard work and the high regard in which he is held in the football community.