David Nofoaluma news: Axed chairman Lee Hagipantelis lifts the lid on disgruntled Wests Tigers star

Liam O'Loughlin

David Nofoaluma news: Axed chairman Lee Hagipantelis lifts the lid on disgruntled Wests Tigers star image

The future of David Nofoaluma continues to remain up in the air, with the Wests Tigers winger in an ongoing dispute with the club over training and coaching standards.

The 30-year-old has been at the centre of plenty of discussion in recent weeks, with his refusal to attend training leading to the RLPA intervening after a complaint was made by the Samoan international.

According to News CorpNofoaluma has reportedly been at loggerheads with Benji Marshall and his staff throughout the pre-season, while his teammates have also shown frustration with his attitude. 

The departures of both Lee Hagipantelis and Justin Pascoe could also prompt the club to cut ties with Nofoaluma, who has played 192 games in the black and gold since his NRL debut over a decade ago.

MORE: Axed chairman lifts the lid on 'deceitful' Wests Tigers exit

Lee Hagipantelis offers insight into David Nofoaluma situation

Speaking on SEN Radio in the wake of his own departure from Concord, the now-former chairman admitted the recent saga involving Nofoaluma has been difficult for all parties. 

“He has found himself in a very challenging and difficult place, there’s no doubt," he said.

"I think the boy’s lost at the moment. I think he has all the talent and ability in the world... he just needs to focus. 

“At the moment he is not toeing the line, at the moment he has proven somewhat difficult, to manage expectations. There has been some miscommunication.

"Benji is instilling a benchmarking and a standard that he wants to enforce... David’s just got to come on board."

At this stage, rival clubs have shown little interest in acquiring Nofoaluma, who still has two years remaining on his contract with the Tigers. 

The tackle-busting outside back had a tough 2023 season, scoring just five tries and struggling for consistent game time in the black and gold jumper. 

David Nofoaluma 2023 NRL stats

Games 17
Tries 5
Linebreaks 6
Tackle Breaks 70
Avg. Run Metres 127m

 

Liam O'Loughlin

Liam O'Loughlin Photo

Liam has been with The Sporting News since 2019, helping lead both NRL and cricket content, as well as delving into the world of combat sports and NFL. A true rugby league tragic, he has spent the past 20 years playing, coaching and volunteering for his beloved junior club, Penshurst RSL. 

Away from work, Liam has a lifelong passion for all things pro wrestling and has travelled abroad to attend showcase events for WWE, AEW and NJPW.