Bailey Smith deletes trade request post amid AFL controversy

Bailey Smith, a talented midfielder for the Western Bulldogs, has officially requested a trade after a challenging 2024 season, during which he was unable to play due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. This injury, sustained during training in December, has significantly impacted his career trajectory and led to ongoing discussions about his future with the club. As the Bulldogs began their exit meetings following an elimination final defeat, Smith's desire to leave became public knowledge. In a move that generated considerable buzz, Smith deleted an Instagram post that included the phrase 'reminder: there's 2 sides to every story' along with a clown emoji. This post, which hinted at his feelings about the situation, fueled speculation regarding his next steps and potential destinations. While he has not yet nominated a preferred club, Geelong, Hawthorn, and Collingwood have all shown interest in acquiring his services. Experts believe that Geelong is the most probable landing spot for Smith, given his talent and the club's needs. However, if he does join the Cats, his existing ambassador deal with Cotton On, which is also Geelong's major sponsor, could lead to complications. Veteran journalists have raised concerns about how this sponsorship might affect his new contract and the scrutiny he may face. Smith's career has been marked by significant achievements, including a standout performance during the Bulldogs' run to the 2021 grand final. As he navigates this pivotal moment in his career, the implications of his trade request and potential move to Geelong will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.