One of the NRL's premiere young talents, Blaize Talagi made headlines earlier this year when it was announced he was departing Parramatta en route to the Penrith Panthers.
Just 19 years old, Talagi burst onto the scene during the 2024 season, with many Eels fans hyping him as the next big name to don the blue and yellow.
But Talagi had other plans, announcing his intention to join the reigning three-time premiers as a replacement for outgoing star Jarome Luai, and we finally know why.
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Blaize Talagi reveals reason behind Penrith switch
The Penrith Panthers knew they had big shoes to fill when Jarome Luai elected to leave the club, opting to head to the Wests Tigers and coach Benji Marshall.
In response, they signed arguably the league's most exciting rising prospect in Talagi, who told the Sydney Morning Herald that he couldn't turn down the chance to play alongside Panthers' star Nathan Cleary.
"I think there are a lot of things to it, but it was hard to turn down an opportunity like that [to play with Cleary]," Talagi said.
"The only time I spoke to him was after the Penrith game [a few weeks ago]. He had a few nice words.
"It was the hardest decision I have had to make of my life. But I feel like I made the right decision.
"The plan was to play No.6, but whatever happens, I am looking forward to it.
"He [Cleary] has been at the top of his game for the past few years now, so when you get the chance to play with someone like that, it is exciting."
The Panthers are currently gearing up to chase a fourth-straight title, while the Eels narrowly avoided the 2024 wooden spoon, thanks to a big win over the Wests Tigers in round 27.
