Roosters star Joey Manu to depart club for Japanese rugby club Toyota Verblitz in 2024

The Sydney Roosters have confirmed that star player Joey Manu will be leaving the club at the end of the 2024 season to join Japanese rugby club Toyota Verblitz. The 27-year-old has been a key player for the Roosters, playing 164 games over nine seasons since making his NRL debut in 2016.

Manu, who came up through the Roosters’ junior ranks, has had a successful career in the NRL, winning two premierships with the club in 2018 and 2019. His departure comes as a blow to the Roosters, who are already set to lose young talent Joseph Suaalii to Rugby Australia.

In a statement, Manu expressed his gratitude for his time with the Roosters, saying, “I have cherished my time playing rugby league for the Roosters, so it’s been a tough decision to leave the club and NRL.” He also mentioned his excitement for the new challenge of playing rugby in Japan.

Roosters head coach Trent Robinson supported Manu’s decision, stating, “Joey has been open about his desire to experience the challenge of living overseas with his young family, and of playing in a different environment, so while we are sad to see him go, we fully support him.”

Manu has signed a lucrative deal with Toyota Verblitz, reportedly worth over $1 million per season. He will join the likes of Joseph Suaalii in making the switch from rugby league to rugby union, with Suaalii signing a deal with Rugby Australia and the Waratahs ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Despite the loss of Manu, the Roosters are focused on finishing the season strongly and have faith in their remaining squad to continue their success in the NRL. Fans can catch all the action on Fox League, available on Kayo.