Former Wakefield and Warrington Wolves winger Matty Russell has had his Super League return confirmed, after signing a one-year deal for the remainder of 2026.
The 32-year-old has joined Catalans Dragons for the rest of the season, as he looks to provide depth and competition to the Dragons’ back line.
A 152-time top flight player, Russell made his debut for Leigh back in 2012, and was a product of the Wigan Warriors youth system.
He moved to Warrington ahead of 2014, and became a regular in Primrose and Blue, making just short of 100 appearances in his first stint.
He joined Toronto Wolfpack in 2018, and stayed there until the club’s withdrawal from Super League in 2020.
Stints at Leigh and Toulouse followed, before a return to Warrington came in 2023 and 2024.
He joined Wakefield on a one-year deal in 2025, and scored six tries in seven appearances, as injuries hampered his time at the club.
Ahead of the new season, he joined Oldham RLFC, but failed to make a competitive appearance for the club.
Last week, February 20, Russell was confirmed to have departed the Championship side, with the club revealing that a move to a Super League outfit was in-bound.
That club has now been revealed to be Les Dracs, in what is a logical move for both player and club.
For Catalans, wing recruit Manase Kaho will miss the entire 2026 season with an ACL injury, and bringing in Russell adds Super League experience, whilst also providing competition for Josh Simm for the starting jersey.
For Russell, it is a chance to have another crack at the top flight, something he will be looking to take with both hands.
His game time in a Wakefield shirt was limited, mainly due to injury, but when he did feature, he looked a solid Super League player, with his try-scoring form backing that up.
Commenting on his move, Russell said: “I’m incredibly excited to have signed with the Catalans Dragons for the upcoming season. I’ve admired the club for a long time throughout my career, and to now have the opportunity to represent it is something I’m truly proud of. For my kids/family to be able to visit and see me play here will create some unforgettable memories.
The fast, aggressive style of rugby the Dragons play really suits my game, and I can’t wait to get out there and contribute. I feel ready and motivated. I believe in my ability, and now it’s about letting my actions do the talking throughout the season.
I’m looking forward to earning my place and bringing healthy competition to the squad every week. I’m really excited to meet the fans and families in Perpignan. I’ve heard so many great things about the club and its supporters, and I can’t wait to experience that passion first-hand.”
