International popstar Robbie Williams has made a bold promise to Carlton, if they achieve one thing in 2025.
WIlliams first made headlines as a Carlton fan way back in 2012, but his love affair soared when he took notice of ruckman Tom de Koning in 2023.
After the Blues triumphant two-point semi-final win over Melbourne two seasons ago, Williams took to social media to celebrate.
And that's when he turned the hit song Love Is In The Air, into a version for de Koning.
"De Koning's in the air, everywhere I look around," he sang on a viral social media video.
Todd Goldstein of the Bombers and Tom De Koning of the Blues compete in the ruck. Getty
"De Koning's everywhere, leaving bodies on the ground. And he's better than his brother, even better than his dad.
"There's only one Thomas de Koning, and he's the best one we'll ever have. De Koning's in the air! De, de, de, de, de, de."
Since then, he's become Carlton's No.1 international fan and rode the bumps through their 2024 campaign, which ended sourly with a 28-point loss to eventual premiers Brisbane in their elimination final.
Now, after a surprise concert in Melbourne, he's made a deal that would see him return later this year – but that's only if Carlton make the finals.
But his promise didn't come without a dig on the way through.
"I've been very important to the mediocrity of the club over the last two seasons," Williams said in Melbourne. "I'm completely only joking."
Robbie Williams in a Blues jumper in 2012. Twitter
He then asked reporters how they believed the Blues
"How are they going to do for next season? Any Carlton fans here?," he asked.
"What do you reckon next season?"
One reporter declared he hoped the Blues would reach September.
"At least finals. OK," Williams said,
"Well if they're in the finals, I'm coming down."
Carlton struggled with injuries in the latter half of the 2024 season, with hopes utility Jack Silvagni will also be fit for a return after an ACL injury ruled him out of last year.
They'll face Richmond in round one at the MCG.