2025 Leeds Rhinos
A first pre-season for Head Coach Brad Arthur, who has decided to stay for another season. Arthur has not fully decided whether his future is in the English game or back home in Australia. For now he is trying to make the Rhinos as mean as possible after the social experiment conducted by Rohan Smith.
2024 Season Review
Brad Arthur came over to Leeds to sort out the mess at Headingley. The plan was for Arthur to propel Leeds into the play-offs, unfortunately, a 50% win ratio was not sufficient, as Leeds found themselves outside on back-to-back seasons.
Transfers Out
James Donaldson, Rhyse Martin, David Fusitu’a, Luis Roberts, Corey Johnson, Justin Sangare, Michael Goudemand, Keiran Hudson, Leon Ruan, Paul Momirovski
Transfers In
Ryan Hall, Keenan Palasia, Cooper Jenkins, Jake Connor, Maika Sivo
Transfer Analysis
I am sure Ian Blease would like us to concentrate on those lovely new signings, but the biggest news is the loss of Rhyse Martin who chose to end his 5 year tenure at Headingley. Martin provided a rock solid presence in the pack, but the bonus was he could kick 80+ goals a season. Momirovski was sent home in the middle of his contract as Leeds try to shuffle a team at salary cap, with 10 players out and 5 in.
Top Super League try-scorer Ryan Hall returns home and he is joined on the other wing by Maika Sivo who scores at nearly a try a game. Keenan Palasia has been brought in to add a little steel to a lightweight pack in recent years.
No analysis can fail to mention that disruptor-in-chief, Jake Connor has appeared at the Headingley ground presided over by one of Rugby Leagues top disciplinarians. Is Jake going to knuckle down? We will just have to wait and see.
2025 Predictions
Leeds have a tasty first XIII, but there appears to be a huge gulf in quality in the squad or should that be creche? 2024 saw many teams deep into the squad numbers last season and if the Rhinos find themselves in a similar position in 2025 they could be mincemeat for a full strength Wigan side. Leeds have been consistent in their inconsistency and expect another see-saw season with a 50% win ratio. Challenging but yet again failing to reach the play-offs. Leeds are my prediction for a 7th place finish. |
