Wayne Bennett declares Josh Schuster's in 'pretty good shape' after Souths signing made official
Updated . First published at
Wayne Bennett has decided to take a punt on potential, with Josh Schuster confirmed to be joining the Rabbitohs until the end of 2025.
Schuster, who left Manly this year but mutual consent, has had a troubled start to his career but will now look to revive his time in the NRL under new coach Bennett.
"We think a comeback to the NRL with our club will be just what Josh needs to get his career back on track," Rabbitohs head of football Mark Ellison said in a statement.
READ MORE: Cult hero stuck in 10-man Sharks signing squeeze
READ MORE: 'Heartbreaking' death rocks racing on eve of spring carnival
READ MORE: President 'outraged' as boxing champ arrested at airport
"We're confident that he can use this second opportunity at NRL level, at a new club with new coaches, new teammates and renewed expectations, to resume his NRL career and achieve his and the team's goals.
Josh Schuster has found a new home after his 50-match stint at Manly. Getty
"We're looking forward to Josh joining us for the 2025 pre-season as he gets ready for a new start next season in the red and green of South Sydney."
Speaking in The Sydney Morning Herald, Bennett said he was "pleased" with Schuster's condition when meeting him recently.
"I only just met him the other day," he said. "He was well mannered, respectful and looked in pretty good shape.
"We're going to find out [if he can return to the NRL]. I only had a few words with him and I won't know until I get back in December, but I was pleased with what I saw."
Schuster left Manly in April after playing 50 games for the club.
The 23-year-old spent time at five-eighth and in the second row but failed to nail down a spot and eventually left, despite being contracted until the end of 2027 on a deal worth around $800,000-a-season.
Watch the 2024 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.
Manly and Schuster's management agreed on a payout before he departed.
After his release, Schuster opened up on his mental health battles, revealing "I wasn't really there mentally".
In August it emerged that South Sydney were considering a play for Schuster with that move now confirmed.
