Parramatta Eels winger Bailey Simonsson has opened up on the tense mid-season rift that nearly ended his time at the club — and how a heartfelt conversation with head coach Jason Ryles helped mend their fractured relationship. The 27-year-old, who was granted permission to explore offers from rival NRL clubs back in August, says he is now fully committed to the Eels’ long-term project after resolving his issues with Ryles.
The conflict between player and coach came to a head before the Eels’ Round 23 clash against the North Queensland Cowboys. With regular centre Sean Russell sidelined by injury, Simonsson expected a recall to the starting 17. Instead, Ryles opted to shift Dylan Brown into the centres, a decision that reportedly left Simonsson furious. At the time, the coach’s reasoning stemmed from a meeting where Simonsson had said his preferred position was on the wing — a comment that, according to the player, was badly misunderstood.
Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald, Simonsson reflected candidly on the saga. “Looking back on it now, it was probably the right call from him,” he admitted. “There were some things away from the field that I wasn’t dealing with very well — injuries and personal stuff. A lot of it got lost in translation. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to play centre; I just said I preferred the wing.”
The Eels flyer soon found himself demoted to the club’s NSW Cup side, and speculation about his departure intensified. But instead of walking away, Simonsson decided to take the initiative. He requested a private meeting with Ryles, determined to clear the air. What followed, he says, was a turning point. “We had a good chat, and Rylesy spoke about wanting me to be part of the club,” Simonsson revealed. “It was a good conversation — I have a lot of time for him and appreciate how he handled it.”
Now, with the matter firmly behind him, Simonsson insists he’s focused on contributing to the Eels’ rebuild and sees his future firmly in blue and gold. “I told Rylesy I want to be at the club and put my best foot forward,” he said. “I love playing for Parramatta and I’m genuinely keen to stay. I feel we’re building something really good here.”
Under contract until 2027, Simonsson’s reconciliation marks a fresh start — both for him and for a club eager to rediscover its best form.
