Frank Ponissi has shut down “embarrassing” reports of a potential move to the Sea Eagles, fully committing to his current role with the Storm.
Melbourne’s long-time general manager has overseen a consistent era of dominance for the club, building a strong relationship with players and coach Craig Bellamy.
Ponissi has been in the role for almost two decades and remains signed until 2029.
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Frank Ponissi. Getty
However, reports from News Corp surfaced this week linking Ponissi with a move to Manly after the abrupt sacking of coach Anthony Seibold.
In an interview with SEN Radio on Wednesday afternoon, Ponissi denied any discussions had taken place and would not be departing Melbourne any time soon.
“It’s a bit embarrassing, all this media stuff,” he said.
“We should be talking about players and coaches … not 60-year-old football managers.
“It’s been obviously a slow media week up north. [I have] no idea where this has come from, but I haven’t spoken to anyone for a start.
“I’ve got three years remaining on my contract and I’m very happy where I am.
“I love the club, love the people I work with and love what I do so no idea where it came from and the sooner it ends, the better.”
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Frank Ponissi and Craig Bellamy have worked together since 2007. Getty
Ponissi then threw his support behind Manly’s current head of football, Peter Gentle, who is also under pressure in the wake of Seibold’s axing.
“More importantly – they’ve got a terrific GM in a fellow called Peter Gentle, he’s a good man and he’s a good operator,” Ponissi continued.
“I have no idea where this came from and hopefully it ends.”
After parting ways with coach Seibold three games into the season, Manly have since appointed club favourite and premiership winner Kieran Foran in an interim capacity.
Foran, along with the likes of Matt Ballin, Michael Ennis and Brad Arthur, headline a list of candidates to take over the position on a permanent basis for 2027.