PNG Chiefs Secure the Services of Two-Time Premiership Winner Joey Manu
In a significant move within the rugby league sphere, the Papua New Guinea Chiefs have successfully recruited Joseph Manu, the former centre for the Sydney Roosters and notable player in the French top-flight rugby union with Racing 92. This transfer is set to take place mid-2027, with Manu expected to play for the Chiefs in the 2028 and 2029 seasons.
Currently, Manu is under contract with Racing 92, where he earns approximately $1.6 million per season, a figure nearly double his final earning with the Roosters. This financial aspect places most competing NRL clubs at a disadvantage when attempting to match the Chiefs’ budget. The Chiefs are operating under a projected salary cap of $15 million for 2028, which, remarkably, will be completely tax-free for its players, serving as a considerable incentive to lure top talent to the Pacific nation.
Throughout the 2025/26 season, the 30-year-old Manu found himself struggling, scoring only one try across 22 matches for Racing as he considered a return to the NRL. Having concluded an impressive 181-game stint with the Roosters, during which he achieved back-to-back Premiership victories in 2018 and 2019, Manu is keen to reunite with Australian league after two years away.
His return is anticipated to facilitate a homecoming closer to his family in New Zealand. Notably, the New Zealand Warriors had sought to engage Manu’s services earlier this year but were turned down as he opted for a respite instead.
The Chiefs’ football boss, Michael Chammas, voiced enthusiasm over securing Manu, labeling him as “a world-class footballer” whose ability to influence a game is unparalleled. “His versatility across various positions is invaluable, and we’re excited to welcome him to our team,” Chammas remarked.
Lorna McPherson, the CEO of the PNG Chiefs, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Manu’s connection to the Pacific and his profound character and experience. “He embodies what it means to represent something larger than oneself, and we believe he will significantly impact both our players and the future generation of Papua New Guineans,” she added.
This development follows a recent sighting of Manu traveling alongside Chammas, as he explored the Chiefs’ facilities, which hint at the growing anticipation for Manu’s impact on the team as they prepare for their inaugural season.
