In a headline that feels like something out of a blockbuster script, Bailey Smith has reportedly made his intentions crystal clear: he wants to join forces with Collingwood — and not just to play footy. According to emerging reports, the star midfielder is “hungry to dominate” alongside Nick Daicos and the Magpies’ core, in what he’s calling a mission to destroy the competition.

The revelation came just hours after Collingwood head coach Craig McRae announced that the club was entering a “bold and aggressive phase” of its premiership pursuit — a statement that now appears to be the green light for the Bailey Smith pursuit.

Smith’s Statement: A Warning Shot

In a conversation leaked via insiders close to the deal, Smith was quoted saying:

“I’ve admired what Collingwood’s building. Daicos, De Goey, Crisp — they’ve got fire. I want to be part of that. I want to win. And we’re coming to destroy teams. That’s the mindset.”

Those words have sent shockwaves through the AFL, signaling that Smith isn’t looking for a quiet trade — he’s after legacy, domination, and a spot in the most feared midfield in modern memory.

Coach McRae Sets the Stage

Earlier in the day, Craig McRae held a press conference where he hinted at “massive internal discussions” about a new roster push, stating:

“We’re not just playing for today. We’re building something bigger — something sustained, ruthless, and future-proof. We’re not content.”

Minutes later, speculation exploded that Bailey Smith was at the center of that strategy.

Joining the Magpie Core: A Superteam in the Making

Bailey Smith’s potential arrival would link him with an all-star core that includes:

•Nick Daicos — arguably the most skilled young player in the league.

•Jordan De Goey — a fierce midfielder-forward hybrid with unmatched explosiveness.

•Tom Mitchell & Josh Daicos — the engine room.

•Scott Pendlebury — still present as a mentor, tactician, and quiet general.

With Smith in the mix, Collingwood’s midfield becomes a nightmare matchup for every team in the competition.

League Reaction: The AFL’s Version of a Superteam

AFL pundits are already calling it the formation of a superteam, with comparisons to the 2000s Brisbane Lions and 2015-era Hawks.

•“Bailey Smith wants blood. This isn’t a trade, it’s a war declaration,” said one SEN commentator.

•“If this goes through, just cancel September,” a fan tweeted half-jokingly.

Even former players weighed in, with Nathan Buckley remarking, “Smith and Daicos together? That’s potentially generational.”

Geelong’s Silence Speaks Volumes

The Geelong Cats, Smith’s current team, have remained tight-lipped about the unfolding drama — but insiders suggest a trade package is already being structured around young talent and draft picks.

The question now isn’t if Bailey Smith wants to join the Magpies — it’s when, and how much it will cost.

Final Word: “We’re Coming”

Bailey Smith’s message is clear: he’s not looking for a soft landing or a paycheque. He’s joining Collingwood to dominate, disrupt, and potentially reshape the next five years of AFL history.

The league has been warned.