The Papua New Guinea Chiefs are pursuing former Sydney Roosters star Joey Manu as a marquee signing ahead of their entry into the NRL [1].
Securing a player of Manu's caliber would provide the new franchise with immediate star power and global visibility. As the club prepares for its inaugural season, a high-profile cross-code return would signal the Chiefs' ambition to be competitive from the start [1].
Manu currently plays rugby union in France, having previously established himself as one of the premier talents in rugby league with the Roosters [1]. The PNG Chiefs are now working to lure him back to the league code to serve as a cornerstone for the expansion team [3].
Reports indicate that Manu is expected to tour the PNG Chiefs set-up in Port Moresby [1]. This visit would allow the player to evaluate the club's infrastructure and vision before committing to a return to the NRL [2].
The recruitment drive is part of a broader strategy to build a competitive roster and raise the club's profile within the rugby league community [3]. By targeting established stars who have transitioned to other codes, the Chiefs aim to create a focal point for fan engagement in Papua New Guinea, and beyond [1].
The PNG Chiefs are scheduled to officially debut in the NRL in 2028 [2]. The timeline allows the organization to strategically recruit talent and develop its local pipeline before facing the rigors of the professional competition [2].
“The PNG Chiefs are pursuing former Sydney Roosters star Joey Manu as a marquee signing.”
The pursuit of Joey Manu reflects the significant financial and branding pressure on expansion teams to attract 'marquee' talent to ensure commercial viability. By targeting a player with experience in both rugby league and rugby union, the PNG Chiefs are attempting to bridge the gap between local passion for the sport and the professional standards required for a 2028 NRL debut.
