Emerging playmaker Hugo Savala has declared he will test his value on the open market following Daly Cherry-Evans’ surprise switch to the Sydney Roosters.
Savala, 23, insists he’s ready to take the next step in his career after a promising 2024 campaign — though some around the league believe he may be moving a little too fast.’
“I’m not running away, but I’m at the stage of my career where I feel I’ve proven myself capable of being a starting player in the halves at NRL level,” Savala said.
“I’m 23 — not 19 or 20 — and I’ve worked extremely hard to get to where I am.”
While there’s no denying Savala’s natural talent, critics have pointed out that his game management still has room for improvement — an area that often separates good halves from great ones in the NRL.
The young playmaker showed flashes of brilliance in 2024, but consistency remained an issue. Some insiders suggest that a stint at a rebuilding club such as the Tigers or Dragons could help him develop leadership and resilience — lessons that might be harder to learn surrounded by stars at the Roosters.
Still, few doubt Savala’s potential. With several clubs reportedly keeping tabs on his situation, he’s expected to draw strong interest when the player market opens.
As one club source put it: “He’s got all the tools — confidence, skill, and a bit of swagger. Now it’s about proving he can run a team week in, week out.”
Whether Savala remains in Bondi or looks elsewhere, one thing’s certain: his next move will be one of the most-watched storylines of the NRL offseason.
