He scored 42 goals. Now Essendon Royals must replace him

It is the end of one of the most influential eras in Essendon Royals’ history following the departure of star forward Jordan Adeyemi.

The English forward returns home to the United Kingdom mid-season after a prolific 18-month spell that saw him establish himself as one of the most feared attackers in VPL2.

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Since arriving ahead of the 2024 season, Adeyemi has been at the centre of Essendon's rise.

His pace, movement and eye for goal made an immediate impact, with the striker finishing as joint winner of the VPL2 Golden Boot after scoring 15 league goals in his debut campaign.

He has backed that up again in 2026.

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Adeyemi leaves as the competition's leading goalscorer with 13 goals in 17 appearances, while his penalty against Malvern City on the weekend proved to be his 42nd goal for the club.

But his influence extended beyond the scoresheet.

The Royals praised Adeyemi's contribution both on and off the pitch, highlighting the standards he helped set within the senior squad while also working with the club's next generation through their Kickstarters program.

“On behalf of everyone at Essendon Royals, thank you, Jordy, for your commitment, your passion, and the unforgettable memories you have created in Royals red,” a statement read.

For a club currently navigating uncertainty around their long-term future at Ormond Park, the departure of one of their most important players marks the end of another significant chapter.

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It is also a blow, with Essendon in the mix for promotion from Victoria’s third tier.

The Royals are third in the table - seven points behind leaders Malvern City and six adrift of second-placed GV Suns.