The Sydney Roosters have received a significant internal boost ahead of the upcoming seasons, with promising young playmaker Hugo Savala choosing loyalty and long-term development over immediate opportunity elsewhere. Despite facing a congested halves picture following the high-profile arrival of Daly Cherry-Evans, the 23-year-old has reportedly committed his future to the Tricolours, reinforcing the club’s belief in its emerging talent.
Savala’s future had been the subject of growing speculation after it was confirmed that Cherry-Evans would be joining the Roosters to partner star halfback Sam Walker. With two elite playmakers seemingly locking down the primary halves roles, questions quickly arose about where that left Savala, who had impressed many during his breakout campaign last season.
Rather than seeking a clearer pathway at a rival club, Savala has opted to stay and fight for his place. According to reports from Code Sports, the Roosters utility has signed a two-year contract extension that will see him remain at the club until the end of the 2028 season. The decision comes despite confirmed interest from several rival NRL clubs eager to secure his services.
Savala had previously entered the open market, attracting attention from teams looking to bolster their playmaking depth. The Bears and the Cowboys were both linked to potential moves, while the Raiders reportedly ruled themselves out of the race early. With his contract status unresolved for the 2027 season, Savala appeared poised for a departure that could offer more immediate first-grade opportunities.
Instead, the young gun has chosen patience and persistence, backing himself to carve out a role within one of the competition’s most competitive rosters. While a starting spot in the halves may not be immediately available, Savala is now expected to push for a place on the bench as a versatile utility, offering the coaching staff valuable flexibility.
One of Savala’s biggest assets is his physical profile. Standing at an imposing 194 centimetres, he brings a size advantage rarely seen in traditional halves. This hulking frame opens up additional positional options, including the possibility of featuring at lock, where his ball-playing ability could complement the team’s spine. His versatility across halfback, five-eighth, and middle-forward roles only strengthens his case as a valuable squad member.
The long-term outlook may also work in Savala’s favour. Cherry-Evans, while still performing at an elite level, has not committed his future to the Roosters beyond the 2026 season. That uncertainty means Savala may only need to bide his time for a single year before a starting opportunity presents itself once again. In the meantime, he will be learning his craft alongside one of the most accomplished halves of the modern era.
The Roosters see that apprenticeship as invaluable. Cherry-Evans’ experience, game management, and leadership offer a rare learning environment for a developing playmaker. For Savala, the chance to train and play alongside such a figure could prove pivotal in shaping the next phase of his career.
Savala’s confidence is already high following a breakout 2025 season in which he featured in 21 matches. That campaign showcased his resilience, adaptability, and ability to perform under pressure, earning praise internally and externally. His development trajectory has convinced the Roosters hierarchy that keeping him within the system was a priority.
The club’s leadership group has also voiced strong support for the decision. Roosters captain James Tedesco spoke glowingly about Savala’s character, commitment, and growth, highlighting why the club remains confident in his future.
“I love Hugo and his attitude,” Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco said of the rising star.
“He wants to stay at the club. He’s a local junior and he exceeded a lot of expectations last year with how he played.
“It’s a great opportunity for him to learn off one of the great halves in our game.”
Those comments underline the cultural importance of Savala’s decision. As a local junior, his commitment reinforces the Roosters’ long-standing philosophy of blending elite recruitment with homegrown talent. Retaining players who understand the club’s identity has long been a cornerstone of their sustained success.
From a squad management perspective, the move also provides crucial depth. Injuries, suspensions, and representative duties often test even the most stacked rosters, and having a proven, adaptable option like Savala ready to step in could prove decisive during the grind of an NRL season.
While the immediate spotlight may be on Cherry-Evans’ arrival and Walker’s continued evolution, Savala’s re-signing ensures the Roosters are well-positioned not just for the present, but for the future. It sends a clear message that development pathways remain open, even in the face of star-studded competition.
For Savala himself, the decision reflects maturity beyond his years. Rather than chasing a short-term solution, he has chosen an environment where growth, learning, and long-term opportunity align. If patience pays off, the Roosters may soon find themselves with another elite playmaker ready to step into a leading role.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how Savala is utilised and how quickly he absorbs the lessons on offer. One thing is certain: the Roosters’ depth has been strengthened, and their future planning has taken a decisive step forward.
