Tuesday 15 September 2026
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Joey Manu’s NRL return confirmed with PNG expansion team, but short-term option could see him play elsewhere first

Former Kiwi international set to join new PNG franchise, though rival clubs are circling for an interim deal

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By LineZotpaper
Published
Read Time3 min
Sources3 outlets
Joey Manu, the former Kiwi international and star NRL centre, will return to the NRL with the new Papua New Guinea expansion team, but rival clubs are already on notice that he could be available for a short-term deal before linking up with the PNG franchise. The development marks a major coup for the NRL’s push into PNG, while opening the door for other clubs to secure his services on a temporary basis.

Joey Manu’s return to the NRL has been officially sealed with the newly-announced Papua New Guinea expansion team, but the deal contains a twist that could see him wear a different jersey before joining the PNG franchise. According to reports from multiple Australian outlets, the former Sydney Roosters and New Zealand international is on his way back to the competition, with rival clubs already aware of the possibility of securing him on a short-term arrangement.

Manu, 29, left the NRL after the 2023 season to pursue a career in Japanese rugby union, where he played for the Tokyo Sungoliath. His return to rugby league has been rumoured for months, and the PNG expansion team – set to enter the NRL in 2028 – has now locked him in as a marquee signing. However, the structure of the deal reportedly allows Manu to play for another NRL club on a temporary basis before his full commitment to PNG begins.

This short-term window has put rival clubs on notice. Several contenders are believed to be interested in adding a player of Manu’s calibre for a stint, potentially as early as the 2027 season. Manu won two NRL premierships with the Roosters (2018, 2019) and was a key figure for the New Zealand Kiwis, making him one of the most sought-after backs in the game. His ability to play centre, fullback, and five-eighth adds to his appeal.

The move is a significant win for the NRL’s expansion strategy, as it gives the PNG team a proven star to build its roster around. It also provides a bridge for Manu to readjust to the NRL’s pace and physicality after his stint in rugby union. Meanwhile, clubs hoping to secure him on loan will need to negotiate both with Manu’s management and the PNG franchise.

Representatives for Manu have not yet commented on potential short-term suitors, but sources indicate that at least three clubs have expressed interest. The arrangement echoes similar temporary deals seen in the NRL, where players have moved on short-term contracts when their primary club’s season has not yet started or when roster spots become available.

For PNG, having Manu on the books is a statement of intent as they prepare to become the NRL’s first Pacific-based team. The franchise’s debut is still two seasons away, but the signing sends a clear message about their ambition to compete at the highest level.

Further details on the potential short-term move are expected to emerge in the coming weeks as the NRL off-season approaches.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • Joey Manu’s return is a major boost for the NRL’s PNG expansion, giving the new team immediate star power and credibility.
  • The short-term deal option could reshape the 2027 NRL season if a top club adds Manu mid-year.
  • Fans of rival clubs have a new player to target, and the move tests the NRL’s loan-system flexibility.

Background

Joey Manu emerged as one of the NRL’s premier backs during his tenure with the Sydney Roosters. He debuted in 2016 and quickly became a key playmaker, winning two premierships and earning multiple caps for New Zealand. After the 2023 season, he shifted to Japanese rugby union with Tokyo Sungoliath, where he played for two seasons. Rumours of his NRL return intensified in early 2026 when the PNG expansion franchise was formally announced. The NRL confirmed PNG as the 18th team, with a 2028 entry date. Manu’s signing represents the first marquee player acquisition for the new franchise.

Key Perspectives

[Joey Manu / Player Management]: Manu’s primary goal is to return to the NRL at the highest level, with PNG offering long-term security while leaving the door open for immediate playing time elsewhere. The short-term clause gives him flexibility to choose a competitive environment. [PNG Expansion Franchise]: The club is prioritising building a competitive roster and sees Manu as a foundational piece. Allowing a temporary loan helps him maintain match fitness while the franchise prepares for its 2028 debut. [Rival NRL Clubs]: Several clubs see Manu as a ready-made star who could bolster their title push for 2027. They must negotiate with PNG and Manu, balancing salary cap constraints and roster spots.

What to Watch

  • Official confirmation of which clubs have approached Manu for a short-term deal.
  • NRL salary cap rulings on how Manu’s dual contracts would be administered.
  • Manu’s first appearance back in the NRL – whether in a short-term stint or directly for PNG in 2028.

Sources

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Articles published under the Zotpaper byline are synthesized from multiple source publications by our AI editor and reviewed by our editorial process. Each story combines reporting from credible outlets to give readers a balanced, comprehensive view.

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