Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti will play for Essendon in 2023, coming out of retirement.
McDonald-Tipungwuti played his last AFL game in round 21, 2021, retiring in May this year after a string of VFL games.
After a change in personal circumstances, the 29-year-old expressed an interest in returning to the game.
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Fremantle had interest in the small forward’s services, but he ultimately opted to return to the club he has played 126 games and kicked 153 goals for, signing a one-year deal.
McDonald-Tipungwuti is set to begin his pre-season campaign in the next few weeks after a meeting on Thursday with new coach Brad Scott.
“We are thrilled that Anthony has decided to come back to the Bombers. Anthony took time away from the club in 2022 to focus on life outside of footy. We’re comfortable he has taken the time he needs to bring a renewed enthusiasm to return to the AFL and play for Essendon,” football boss Josh Mahoney said.
“He is a committed Essendon person who loves playing football and our conversations with Anthony recently led us to believe there was a realistic chance he would come back to Essendon.”
“Once we knew he was keen to return we worked with the AFL on the right pathway back to the club including approval from a list management perspective.
“We will continue to support him on and off the field and assist in his quest to return to football. We acknowledge a lot of hard work is ahead but feel confident he can achieve his football ambitions and goals at the club he loves.”
“He is loved by players, coaches, staff and fans and we look forward to him returning to Essendon.”
