Two-time NRL premiership winner and New Zealand international Joseph Manu has become the latest high-profile signing for the PNG Chiefs, joining the club on a two-year deal ahead of its inaugural NRL season in 2028.
The former Sydney Roosters star, who is currently playing rugby union with Racing 92 in France, will become Chiefs Player #007 and bring a wealth of experience, including two NRL premierships, 181 first-grade games and 17 Tests for New Zealand.
Manu joins an already star-studded Chiefs roster that includes Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax and Brian To’o, taking the club’s confirmed signings so far to seven as it prepares for its historic entry into the NRL in 2028.
Born in New Zealand of Māori and Cook Island descent, Manu made his NRL debut in 2016 and went on to win premierships with the Roosters in 2018 and 2019. He scored 69 tries in 181 NRL appearances and was awarded the prestigious Golden Boot in 2022.
In a statement on Monday, 24th August, PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Manu’s signing demonstrated the club’s ambition to make a significant impact both on and off the field.
“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,” McPherson said.
“His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club.”
PNG Chiefs General Manager – Football Michael Chammas said Manu would add versatility, attacking threat and valuable experience to the squad.
“We’re thrilled to add Joey to our squad moving forward,” Chammas said.
“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.”