🔥 Trending Joey Manu: Rugby League Star's Potential Code Switch

Joseph "Joey" Manu is a prominent New Zealand professional rugby footballer, primarily known for his career in rugby league and his recent transition to rugby union ¹². He is currently a center for Racing 92 in France's Top 14 rugby union competition ².

Early Life and Rugby League Career

Born on June 29, 1996, Manu began his professional career in rugby league ¹. He gained significant recognition during his time with the Sydney Roosters in Australia's National Rugby League (NRL) ¹. With the Roosters, he achieved considerable success, winning two premierships in 2018 and 2019 ¹. He also represented New Zealand and the New Zealand Māori at the international level in rugby league ¹.

Transition to Rugby Union

In a notable move, Manu transitioned from rugby league to rugby union, joining Racing 92 in France ²⁵. He plays as a center for the French club ². Standing at 1.88 meters (6 ft 2 in) and weighing 93 kg (205 lbs), he is a physically imposing player in the sport ².

Current Speculation and Future Prospects

As of mid-2026, there is considerable speculation surrounding Joey Manu's potential return to the NRL ³⁵. Reports indicate that he is "weighing up" a return to rugby league, with the PNG Chiefs emerging as a surprise frontrunner for his signature ³⁵. He has been seen meeting with PNG Chiefs officials, including boss Michael Chammas, suggesting serious discussions are underway ⁸. This comes despite earlier reports in January 2026, which were later debunked, claiming he had officially returned to the Sydney Roosters on a long-term contract ⁶⁷.

Manu's potential move back to the NRL highlights the ongoing cross-code interest in his talents and the desire of NRL clubs, particularly new entities like the PNG Chiefs, to secure high-profile players ³⁵.