Former Roosters Premiership Star Unveiled as PNG Chiefs' '007' Signing

Much-hyped rugby league player Joey Manu has officially signed a two-year deal with the PNG Chiefs, marking his return to the NRL in 2028. Manu, a celebrated two-time premiership winner with the Sydney Roosters, is set to significantly strengthen the Chiefs' backline, which is already considered a league envy.

The Chiefs had long teased their seventh signing, with speculation initially pointing to Penrith superstar Nathan Cleary. However, the "007" designation on their "staircase of signings" at their home base now belongs to code-hopper Manu. "We're thrilled to add Joey to our squad moving forward," said Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas. "He is a world-class footballer with versatility across several positions and can change a game in a single moment with the skills he possesses."

Manu joins an impressive roster that includes Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Zac Lomax, Brian To'o, and Matty Lees. This move, however, appears to have dashed Manu's childhood dream of representing the All Blacks. Having left the NRL for a rugby union career overseas after the 2024 season, his current French rugby deal extends to the end of 2027. By the time his Chiefs contract concludes, Manu will be 33, past the age when New Zealand Rugby typically selects players for the national team if they are not playing domestically.

Manu was a highly prized utility player in the NRL, featuring in 181 games for the Roosters and winning premierships in 2018 and 2019. He was recognized as the Dally M centre of the year in 2022 and received the Golden Boot award for the sport's best international player later that year. His versatility allows him to play competently at centre, fullback, and even in the halves. While he offered no guarantees about returning to rugby league upon leaving the NRL after the Roosters' 2024 finals campaign, a comeback was widely expected with the Roosters. Instead, he becomes a key acquisition for the NRL's 19th team, which can offer lucrative tax-free salaries.

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We're thrilled to add Joey to our squad moving forward. He is a world-class footballer with versatility across several positions and can change a game in a single moment with the skills he possesses.