Collingwood Football Club has wasted little time in reshaping its playing list after their disappointing preliminary final loss to Brisbane on Saturday night. The Magpies, who just last year celebrated premiership glory, have made four key list changes with cult hero Oleg Markov, defender Charlie Dean, forward Ash Johnson, and midfielder Fin Macrae all informed that they will not be part of the club’s future plans.

The move comes only days after the team’s finals exit, a defeat that exposed the need for change as Collingwood looks to refresh its squad heading into the 2026 season.

Markov’s Emotional Departure

Oleg Markov, 29, was perhaps the most surprising name among the delistings. Having joined the Magpies as a pre-season rookie ahead of the 2023 campaign, the energetic half-back flanker quickly endeared himself to the Collingwood faithful with his flair and intensity.

Markov went on to play 23 matches in his debut season with the club, highlighted by his role in Collingwood’s memorable grand final triumph over Brisbane. That performance cemented him as a cult figure at the Magpies, a player whose speed and relentless energy provided a spark on the big stage.

However, 2025 was a much tougher year for the versatile defender. He managed only eight senior games, with his final appearance coming in Round 21. Despite his past contributions, Collingwood has opted to part ways, leaving fans saddened to see a premiership hero depart so soon after tasting ultimate success.

List manager Justin Leppitsch acknowledged Markov’s impact on the club. “We thank Oleg for his contributions to our club. He played a key role in the 2023 AFL premiership and has had a profound impact on our AFL program,” Leppitsch said.

Ash Johnson’s Injury-Cursed Campaign

Forward Ash Johnson was another casualty of the club’s review. After bursting onto the scene in 2022 and becoming a reliable target in Collingwood’s forward line, Johnson’s career has been derailed by injury setbacks.

In the lead-up to the 2025 season, the 25-year-old suffered a serious leg injury during a VFL pre-season match, ruling him out for most of the year. Johnson had been an important contributor in 2022, playing the last nine games of the season, including three finals, but he missed out on Collingwood’s premiership campaign in 2023.

While Johnson did return for limited appearances in 2023, he could not recapture the form that initially made him such a promising prospect. His delisting marks an unfortunate turn in a career that once held so much promise.

Leppitsch praised Johnson’s attitude despite his injury struggles. “Ash… thank you for your dedication and commitment to the club throughout your time in the black and white. They’ve all shown great resilience and have all left a long-lasting impact on the playing group.”

Charlie Dean’s Short Stint

Defender Charlie Dean departs Collingwood after two seasons with the senior side. Drafted as a player with strong intercepting ability and composure under pressure, Dean managed just 12 senior appearances, four of them coming this year.

Though highly regarded as a developing backman, injuries and strong competition for places limited his opportunities at AFL level. His delisting suggests Collingwood may look to target defensive reinforcements in the upcoming draft and trade period.

The Macrae Name Continues Elsewhere

Fin Macrae, the younger brother of St Kilda star Jack Macrae, was drafted by Collingwood with pick No.19 in hopes that he would blossom into a long-term midfield option. Unfortunately, the 23-year-old was never able to establish himself in the Magpies’ crowded engine room.

Across his time at the club, Macrae played 21 senior games but none during the 2025 season. Despite his strong work ethic and perseverance, he found himself on the outer as Collingwood’s midfield core remained settled around stars like Nick Daicos and Jordan De Goey.

Leppitsch expressed his gratitude for Macrae’s professionalism during his time at the club. “Ash, Charlie and Fin, thank you for your dedication and commitment to the club throughout your time in the black and white.”

A Difficult But Necessary Decision

Leppitsch admitted the decision to let go of four players, including a recent premiership hero, was a tough one for the club. “This time of year is always difficult, but we commend the group on the maturity and respect they’ve shown throughout this process,” he said.

“All four individuals are quality people, and we do sincerely wish each of them the best with their next chapter, on and off the field.”

The Magpies’ swift action signals a willingness to rejuvenate their list as they chase sustained success. After their triumphant 2023 premiership, the 2025 season ended in disappointment, and the club now faces the challenge of ensuring their next chapter delivers more finals glory.

Looking Ahead

For the players departing, new opportunities may arise. Markov, with his premiership pedigree and proven versatility, could attract interest from rival AFL clubs or overseas leagues. Johnson’s raw talent as a forward might see him given another chance if he can regain full fitness. Dean and Macrae, both still relatively young, may find pathways back to AFL lists or continue their careers at state-league level.

For Collingwood, the focus now shifts to the upcoming trade period and national draft. With several list spots freed, the Magpies will be looking to bring in fresh talent to bolster their campaign for 2026. Fans will be watching closely to see how the club replaces experience with youth, and whether they can build a squad capable of returning to the grand final stage.

The delisting of four players, particularly one as beloved as Oleg Markov, underscores the ruthless nature of professional sport. Success demands continual evolution, and Collingwood’s list management team has signaled they are not afraid to make bold calls in pursuit of another premiership.