In a surprising turn of events, former Collingwood general manager and long-time president Eddie McGuire—who has recently resurfaced in the public spotlight with a string of media appearances and the launch of his new hockey-themed podcast—has just delivered a blunt and unexpected message to current Collingwood GM Charlie Gardiner and the entire team.
Speaking during a live segment recorded only minutes ago, McGuire didn’t hold back as he addressed what he called a “glaring leadership vacuum” at the top of the Collingwood Football Club. While congratulating the team on their resilience this season, McGuire’s tone quickly shifted, saying:
“Charlie needs to step up—or step aside. Collingwood isn’t a club that coasts. We lead, we fight, and right now, I’m not seeing the fire we need to take us into 2026 as real contenders.”
He continued by referencing the team’s patchy on-field form, raising concerns about recruitment strategies and the club’s long-term vision, hinting that some internal decisions had “set the team back two seasons.”
McGuire’s comments, though not entirely out of character for the outspoken media veteran, have sent shockwaves through the AFL community—especially as they come just days before the club’s annual general meeting and amid mounting pressure on Gardiner to clarify his strategic direction.
Club sources have not yet responded publicly to McGuire’s remarks, but insiders suggest a statement may be forthcoming.
