Collingwood coach Craig McRae became visibly emotional Tuesday as he revealed he had unsuccessfully attempted to reach out to troubled Magpies star Bobby Hill, who is nearing a departure from the club.

McRae used a press conference to convey a public message to Hill, stating that the player, who famously won the Norm Smith Medal when Collingwood claimed the premiership, will always have a home with the team.

"If you are out there, Bobby, we have a lot of love and care for you," McRae said. "He is a premiership player and a Norm Smith medallist and he will forever be welcome in our four walls for the future."

Hill has been away from the club for approximately a year dealing with personal issues. McRae acknowledged the personal impact of the situation, stating, "I am getting emotional even thinking about it … I think of that young man with three kids. You want the best for them, for all our players to come into our environment and be good humans and be a good father and a good husband; those things that we're trying to instil."

Collingwood is currently in discussions regarding the exit from Hill's contract, which is reportedly valued at $750,000 per season. A settlement, if finalized, could conclude his four-year extension and his four seasons with the club.

Hill has been away from the club for the better part of the last year as he deals with some personal issues

McRae emphasized that regardless of the contract situation, Hill would retain the support of those at the club. Hill's absence from the team has been significant, with reports earlier this year detailing his separation from his long-term partner and a move back to Perth with their two children. He also briefly returned to Perth for the birth of his third child before a short stint back at training.

Hill was famously part of the team that brought the Magpies a championship back in 2023

McRae stated he is not privy to the details of any potential contract payout, considering the matter "totally out of my hands." He added, "But I'll just try to provide a platform where people feel safe and a sense of belonging that we ought to be doing."

McRae reiterated his unwavering commitment to supporting Hill, concluding, "we won't waver in our love and support for the young man."

It seems Bobby Hill will not be returning to Collingwood as a player but McRae wants his soon-to-be former player to know his door is always open