Brayden Fiorini will undergo surgery on his back and is expected to miss the majority of the 2026 home-and-away season. 

The 28-year-old had been experiencing ongoing pain since being a late withdrawal ahead of the round three game against North Melbourne earlier in the season.    

Despite making minor progress at different stages of his rehabilitation, consultation with both the surgeon and the Club’s medical team this week deemed surgery as the best method for his recovery going forward in the long-term. 

Essendon’s GM - AFL Daniel McPherson said the Club was disappointed for Fiorini after the time and effort he had put in over the last few weeks to get back out on the park. 

“We’re really disappointed for Brayden. He has done a mountain of work to get on top of this injury and give himself every chance to get back on the track,” McPherson said. 

“Unfortunately, after ongoing assessment and treatment, including consultation with a number of external experts, the decision has been made that surgery is now the best course of action for his long-term health and return to play.

“Despite it only being his first year at the Club, he plays an integral role in our leadership group and will continue to have a positive impact on the playing group around the Club and on gamedays.” 

The Club will provide further updates on Fiorini’s rehab and progress following his surgery.