Marcelo Montoya, the former Fiji Bati player, will be departing from the New Zealand Warriors to return to Australia. The 28-year-old has received an early release from his contract, which was set to expire next season.
Andrew McFadden, the Warriors’ general manager of recruitment, pathways, and development, expressed support for Montoya’s decision, stating, “We were happy for Marcelo to see out his contract with us but we’re really pleased he has found a club back in Australia giving him longer term security.” He added that Montoya has been a significant presence at the club for the last four seasons, contributing both on and off the field, and wished him and his wife Tayla the best for their future endeavors.
Montoya is anticipated to rejoin his former team, the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, with a two-year signing. During his time with the Warriors, he scored 30 tries in 82 games, including all 27 matches in the 2023 season.