BREAKING NEWS! Collingwood have signed Docked Airlie Runnalls on a (5) years contract deal and Fremantle get Pick 75. All the best Airlie…

**BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood Sign Docked Airlie Runnalls on Five-Year Deal, Fremantle Receive Pick 75**

In a surprising move that has shaken the AFL landscape, Collingwood Football Club has announced the signing of highly-regarded midfielder Airlie Runnalls on a five-year contract. The deal, which is one of the most talked-about transfers of the season, comes with significant ramifications for both the Magpies and Fremantle Dockers, the club Runnalls departs.

**The Deal: What It Means for Collingwood**

Collingwood’s decision to secure Runnalls for five years indicates the club’s long-term vision and their belief in the young star’s potential. At just 22 years old, the versatile midfielder has already demonstrated significant talent, particularly with his ability to break lines, win contested possessions, and provide a dynamic presence across the field.

While Runnalls was controversially “docked” in terms of performance and match availability this past season due to disciplinary issues, his on-field performances have still caught the eye of recruiters. Collingwood, known for their knack for unearthing raw talent and turning it into elite-level football, will be hoping they can help Runnalls mature both on and off the field.

**Fremantle’s Position: Pick 75 in Return**

In exchange for Runnalls, Fremantle has received Pick 75 in the upcoming AFL Draft. While the pick may seem modest compared to some of the more high-profile trades, Fremantle will be hoping to use that pick to secure an emerging talent who can complement their existing roster. The Dockers have been in a rebuilding phase in recent seasons and have consistently looked to strengthen their future with young, talented players.

For Fremantle, losing Runnalls will be a blow, given the potential the 22-year-old has shown. However, the club’s decision to let him go appears strategic—aiming to bolster their depth in the upcoming draft.

**Runnalls’ Journey: A Rollercoaster Career So Far**

Airlie Runnalls’ time at Fremantle had been marked by flashes of brilliance, but also a series of setbacks, including suspension and disciplinary issues that led to a reduced role. Despite these challenges, Runnalls has always been a player with immense upside. His performance at the 2023 AFL season, when fit, showcased his ability to be a game-changer, and it is this potential that Collingwood sees in him.

The move to Collingwood could provide Runnalls with the fresh start he needs. The Magpies’ strong leadership group, combined with a team-oriented culture, could be the perfect environment for Runnalls to find his best form.

**The Big Picture: Why This Trade Matters**

This trade is an example of both clubs making moves to set up for the future. For Collingwood, it’s about securing a young player with the potential to become a future star. The long-term contract signals their belief that Runnalls’ talent, when harnessed properly, can contribute to the club’s premiership aspirations. Meanwhile, Fremantle is looking to continue to build through the draft, and the acquisition of Pick 75 allows them to add another piece to their evolving squad.

**The Future for Runnalls**

The next few years will be crucial for Runnalls as he settles into his new surroundings at Collingwood. If he can regain his best form and stay focused, he has the tools to become a key player for the Magpies in the near future. But for now, it’s a time for reflection and a new beginning as he embarks on the next chapter of his AFL career.

Collingwood supporters will be watching eagerly to see how this bold move plays out, while Fremantle fans will be hoping their club can turn Pick 75 into a player who can help their rebuild progress.

**All the Best, Airlie**

As Runnalls packs his bags and heads to Melbourne to join Collingwood, AFL fans around the country will be wishing him all the best in this new chapter. The move marks the beginning of what could be an exciting new journey for the young midfielder, and Collingwood supporters will certainly be hoping it’s a successful one.

In a season where change seems to be a constant, the Runnalls trade is yet another reminder of the dynamic nature of the AFL, where the future is always up for grabs.

Collingwood