The prop debuted with the Tigers and has been released from the Bulldogs.
With intentions to promote Fijian international Kitione Kautoga to the Top 30 squad by 2026, the Parramatta Eels have strengthened their forward depth by signing him to a development contract for the 2025 campaign.
The club and the young forward, who has already shown promise in the NRL and internationally, will both benefit from the deal.
At the end of the 2024 season, the Eels said goodbye to some significant bulk and muscle as Makahesi Makatoa, Fahiki Ogden, and Reagan Campbell-Gillard all left, creating a void in the pack.
After making his NRL debut for the Wests Tigers in 2022, Kautoga’s career has taken a rapid turn.
The powerful forward is no longer part of the blue and whites’ ambitions after joining the Canterbury Bulldogs in the middle of 2023 and playing at Belmore in 2024.
Eels supporters will be eagerly awaiting his Fijian international debut at the Pacific Championships.
Mark O’Neill, general manager of football for the Parramatta Eels, stated the team’s excitement about Kautoga’s arrival and the potential he offers.
“Kitione’s arrival to the Parramatta Eels is greatly appreciated,” O’Neill stated.
“We think he will be a good addition to our squad; he is an exciting young talent who has already experienced the NRL.”
Kautoga has started working out with the Eels and will participate in the December 14 Members Open Training session at Granville Park.
It is believed that the forward’s incorporation into the team’s preseason training is a crucial phase in his growth.
O’Neill continued, “His participation in our preseason training will give him a chance to become accustomed to our systems and form bonds with his teammates.”
“We have no doubt that he will continue to develop and flourish under the direction of our coaching staff.”
With an eye toward a bright future in the Top 30 squad by 2026, Eels management will be watching closely to see how the rising Fijian star develops under the direction of Parramatta’s coaching staff, especially incoming head coach Jason Ryles.
