Collingwood Football Club has taken decisive action on its playing list, officially farewelling Charlie Dean, Ash Johnson, Fin Macrae and Oleg Markov ahead of the 2026 AFL season.
The Magpies made the call following their comprehensive end-of-season review, reinforcing their commitment to staying at the top while strategically preparing for sustained future success.
“We thank Charlie, Ash, Fin and Oleg for their contributions to Collingwood,” the club declared. “Each player brought unique strengths and character to the group, and we wish them every success as they move forward.”
- Charlie Dean showed enormous promise as a key defender, with strong intercept marking a feature of his game despite injury setbacks.
- Ash Johnson thrilled fans with his high-flying marks and flair in attack, making an unforgettable impact in 2022.
- Fin Macrae, a former first-round draft pick, displayed elite ball-winning ability but found limited opportunities in Collingwood’s powerhouse midfield.
- Oleg Markov, a vital contributor to the 2023 premiership, added speed and dash across half-back during his time in black and white.
Addressing Speculation
Some media outlets suggested up to six departures, but the club has confirmed four. Additional list adjustments may still occur as Collingwood works through retirements, trades, and draft strategy. What is clear is that the Magpies are making bold, calculated decisions to keep their list primed for contention.
The Road Ahead
This announcement sends a clear message: Collingwood is not standing still. By making tough but necessary calls now, the Magpies are ensuring they remain a powerhouse in 2026 and beyond. With a sharp focus on both immediate performance and long-term growth, the club is positioning itself to chase more premiership glory.
