Chiefs land monster signing of two-time premiership star
Former Roosters star Joey Manu has signed with the PNG Chiefs on a two-year deal.
The Chiefs confirmed the signing of the 30-year-old cross-code star on Monday morning, ahead of the club’s entry into the NRL as the 19th team in 2028.
Joey Manu in his time at the Roosters. Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
The gun utility back becomes the seventh Chiefs signing, following the recruitment of a host of high-profile players including Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Zac Lomax and Brian To’o.
Manu is playing in French rugby union for Racing 92, the club whose home ground was turned into a swimming arena for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
He left the Roosters following the 2024 NRL season, after a 181-game stint at the Tricolours in which he won two premierships.
He had a standout season for the glamour club in 2022, when he was named Dally M Centre of the Year and was recognised as the best player in the world as the winner of the Golden Boot award.
Manu has also made 17 appearances for New Zealand.
He had been spotted meeting with Chiefs officials and touring the club and country in recent weeks.
The Chiefs have been assisted by the luxury of tax-free dollars in the piecing-together of their inaugural roster.
“Joey is another key signing for us and a further demonstration of the ambition we have for this club in making an impact for the people of Papua New Guinea,” said Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson.
“His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club.
“He understands the responsibility that comes with representing something bigger than himself, and we believe he can have a genuine impact on our young players and the next generation of Papua New Guineans – who we are proud to represent as a club.”
The Chiefs had set tongues wagging by teasing the upcoming signing of player “007”, the number associated with James Bond.
Joey Manu in action for New Zealand. Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
PNG had “reserved” that spot on a staircase at the club featuring its first six signings, sparking speculation that champion Panthers No.7 Nathan Cleary could be headed to the Chiefs.
PNG’s roster build will go into overdrive when a host of NRL stars, including Cleary and Roosters ace Sam Walker, become free agents on November 1.
“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.
“His experience and demonstrated success at the highest level will be a great benefit to our team and we can’t wait to see him have a significant impact in the Chiefs jersey.”
Chiefs’ signings: Jarome Luai (Tigers/Eels), Alex Johnston (Rabbitohs), Connor Watson (Roosters/Dragons), Matty Lees (St Helens), Zac Lomax (rugby union), Joseph Manu (rugby union)
