St George Illawarra Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan has sent a surprising message to fans, urging them to be patient as the club goes through a rebuilding phase.
Speaking after the team missed out on several high-profile player signings, Flanagan admitted the road ahead will take time. “You have to be a little bit patient,” he said. “We’re building something long-term, and not everything will come together overnight.”
The message has surprised many fans, who were hoping for faster progress and bigger signings this season. Flanagan made it clear that 2025 is part of a long-term plan and that results will improve over time.
This isn’t the first time Flanagan has made headlines with bold statements. In the past, he’s made controversial remarks about his former club, the Cronulla Sharks, saying he was eager to beat them and even joked about their lack of success since he left. He’s also been open about his desire to prove doubters wrong after returning to coaching following a suspension.
Despite the mixed reactions, the Dragons have shown faith in Flanagan by extending his contract until 2028.
