Former Rugby League star Willie Isa will reportedly join Chelsea in a shock move after announcing his retirement from the sport. The Samoan surprised fans by abruptly calling time on his rugby career in January.
Isa had only signed a one-year contract extension with Wigan Warriors last October but has U-turned and retired ahead of the 2025 season. The 36-year-old back-rower is a three-time Super League champion and won the World Club Challenge with Wigan.
Announcing his retirement last month, Isa revealed that he had been offered a new opportunity elsewhere. It is now reported that his new job will be with Premier League club Chelsea in a surprise switch of sports.
But Isa will not be lining up alongside Cole Palmer and co. at Stamford Bridge. Instead, the Daily Mail reports that he has been appointed as player support and development officer. His responsibilities are described as being ‘broad’.
Isa will reportedly work closely with Chelsea’s head of men’s operations and welfare Kevin Campello. During his career, the former Castleford Tigers and Widnes Vikings star was known for his leadership qualities.
“During my time at Wigan Warriors I was fortunate to have worked with some incredible people within the game. Wigan Warriors is a special club and I want to thank everyone who I have had the privilege of working with,” said Isa in a statement issued in January about his retirement.
“The fans, of course, are a big part of the club. I am grateful for the way you have all embraced me. The least I could do was play with my heart every time I wore the Cherry and White jersey. I hope you saw that and I have repaid the faith and support you showed me.
“The decision has not been easy and somewhat unexpected, but it is a blessing that I have been offered an opportunity to pursue. For me to take this opportunity, I have made the choice to end my professional career with immediate effect.
“Specifically, I want to thank the medical team and everyone at the club who has supported me throughout the recovery of my ankle dislocation and fractured fibula. I am extremely grateful for their hard work, time and support which has enabled me to return into full team training and experience the thrills of contact training again.”
Player support roles at football clubs generally involve providing pastoral support to individuals. That can range from helping a new player settle in at the club, to guiding them on their journey through football.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk