Josh Schuster breaks silence on Manly’s decision to grant him permission to look for another club

Manly Sea Eagles rising star Josh Schuster has finally broken his silence on the club’s decision to allow him to explore opportunities with other teams, despite being under contract until 2027. The 22-year-old, who recently signed a lucrative extension worth $800,000 a year starting in 2025, is facing the possibility of playing for a new club before even receiving a cent of that contract.

In a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald, Schuster expressed his disappointment at the situation, stating that his mind is currently preoccupied with various other matters. The Sea Eagles have granted him personal leave to deal with these issues, highlighting the importance of his well-being during this challenging time.

“I know I’m at a really important stage of my career – I don’t want to waste my talent,” Schuster said. “I’m disappointed that things are not working out at Manly because I was really hoping to make it here. Right now, I need time and space to get it right with the support of my family and friends. I have the desire to make it back, get to the top, and stay there for a long time.”

Despite reports of lukewarm interest from other clubs, Schuster’s agent Mario Tartak confirmed that several teams have shown interest in the talented back rower. However, Tartak emphasized the importance of prioritizing Schuster’s well-being and taking the necessary time to make a decision that is in his best interest.

Schuster’s 2024 season got off to a rocky start with an interrupted pre-season and being left out of the club’s season opener in Vegas. Despite his efforts in reserve grade, he has struggled to make an impact and secure a spot in the NRL lineup. As he navigates this challenging period in his career, Schuster remains determined to overcome obstacles and reach the pinnacle of success in the sport.