It’s official: Zak Butters declares he’s leaving Port Adelaide

Zak Butters has requested to depart Port Adelaide through free agency, a decision that has been a major topic of discussion throughout the season. The club has indicated they will accommodate the request while striving for the most advantageous outcome for themselves. The 25-year-old, a three-time best and fairest winner and dual All-Australian, announced his intention to return to Victoria following his time in Adelaide.

The future of the Port Adelaide midfielder has been a hot topic of conversation all season, with reports suggesting offers from Richmond, Geelong, Collingwood, and the Western Bulldogs have been made to him, potentially reaching up to $18 million over eight years. In expressing his decision to leave, Butters said he had wrestled with the decision for some time, emphasizing that it was not taken lightly.

Despite loving his time in Adelaide and acknowledging the club's significance in his career, he feels it's time to be around family and friends more.

Butters also expressed his gratitude towards the club, stating he will always be a Port Adelaide person and value the memories and opportunities the team has provided him. He highlighted the unwavering support from the supporters and his commitment to playing football in the right way. He concluded by saying he always tries to repay the club in the right way.

Port Adelaide responded by confirming they would facilitate Butters' request, aiming to secure the best outcome for the club. The club acknowledged Butters' outstanding service to the team since his debut in 2019, praising him as a three-time John Cahill Medallist and dual All-Australian. They thanked him for all he has contributed to the club.

According to reports, Butters informed some teammates about his decision in June, a claim the club denied at the time. Despite this, it emerged that Butters played 17 games this season before a syndesmosis injury in Round 18 forced him to end his season prematurely. Port Adelaide had been adamant throughout the season about matching any bid on Butters, aiming to trade him to maximize their draft capital.

CEO Matthew Richardson had previously stated that the club would match any offer and maintain control over the situation, emphasizing that it gives them significant leverage.