Parramatta's backline shuffle has escalated into a full-blown standoff between Bailey Simonsson and the club.
The 27-year-old has now asked for a release three times in the past month, the latest coming this week.
Simonsson was reportedly told that he would not be considered for Sunday's clash with the Cowboys, despite a vacancy in the centres after Sean Russell fractured his hand in round 22.
Instead, head coach Jason Ryles named Jordan Samrani in the centres. But it is expected that Dylan Brown - currently bound for Newcastle - will line up in that role.
Brown, primarily a five-eighth, has been sidelined from first grade in recent weeks because of Ryles' decision to prioritise the long-term development of their roster.
Why has Simonsson requested a third release from the Eels?
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that Simonsson was enraged by his snub from this week's team after the opportunity for a recall presented itself.
The versatile outside back was originally dropped after his side's round 20 loss to the Raiders. He had played the previous two games in the centres.
Soon after, he told the club his preferred position was wing, where he has exclusively played in New South Wales Cup since.
Simonsson, however, maintained that he never ruled himself out of centre contention, only stating his ideal position when asked.
The move stings further given Simonsson's history with the coach. Ryles extended his contract at the end of 2024 while he recovered from an ACL injury.
The two-year extension ties Simonsson to the club until 2027.
But injuries have derailed his 2025 season. After returning in round six, he broke his foot four games later, sidelining him for two months.
His round-19 comeback yielded only two NRL appearances before he was dropped.
The Eels twice rejected his earlier release requests; this time they may grant it.
The decision could make Simonsson the third member of the 2022 grand final squad to exit mid-season, after Bryce Cartwright and Ryan Matterson.
MORE: Inside Jason Ryles' roster strategy
It also marks another flashpoint in Ryles' roster overhaul.
For now, Simonsson's future at the Eels remains uncertain - and increasingly unlikely to be salvaged.