Star midfielder all but confirms Cats exit, open to playing on elsewhere

Contributor
Sayantan Guha
Star midfielder all but confirms Cats exit, open to playing on elsewhere image

Mitch Duncan has revealed he is almost certain to leave Geelong at the end of the season, but hasn’t closed the door on extending his AFL career at another club.

The 34-year-old two-time premiership winner, sidelined since a VFL shoulder injury last month, told Triple M he will not be at the Cattery in 2026. 

“I don’t think I’ll be playing at Geelong (next year), and that’s pretty much on both terms,” he said before watching the Cats take on Essendon on Friday night.

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Fresh challenge or coaching future

While Duncan’s roots are firmly planted in Geelong with his wife, four children and extended family, he admitted the idea of moving had been discussed. “It’s been floated,” he said. “When you get to this part in your career, all these options can potentially open up… it’s a little bit exciting though, potentially, of that happening.”

If he doesn’t pull on a guernsey elsewhere, the veteran is eyeing a path into coaching, even cheekily suggesting to Essendon that he is available. “I might be looking for a job next year in the coaching area, so if they’re looking for any of them, I put my hand up!”

Duncan is aiming to return to some level of football next week and is keeping himself ready in case a senior recall arises. “It’s just about when I get my opportunity, or if I get my opportunity, I’m ready to go,” he said.