The newly established Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Rugby League (NRL) expansion franchise the PNG Chiefs continues to build a star-studded roster that could rival even Marvel’s Avengers, securing their seventh high-profile recruit: former Rugby League Golden Boot winner Joseph Manu. The 30-year-old rugby league star has put pen to paper on a two-year contract that will see him join the team ahead of their competitive debut in 2028.
For weeks leading up to the official announcement, club officials teased fans with cryptic hints referencing a “#007 signing”, sparking widespread speculation that the franchise was targeting a top-tier halfback. The reveal of Manu as the mystery recruit has exceeded most expectations, adding another elite talent to a backline already stacked with household names of the sport including Jarome Luai, Zac Lomax, Brian To’o and Alex Johnston. The dual-code star is widely expected to slot into the fullback position for the new franchise.
Manu departs the NRL after a decorated nine-season tenure with the Sydney Roosters, where he claimed back-to-back NRL premiership titles and established himself as one of the league’s most dynamic attacking players. On the international stage, he also built a reputation as a game-changing talent, turning out consistently for New Zealand’s national side. Currently, he is competing in French rugby union with Racing 92, and will transition back to rugby league ahead of his 2028 arrival with the Chiefs. Club officials note that while Manu will need to reacclimate to the nuances of league, his natural talent and proven track record make the transition unlikely to be a significant challenge.
In a statement following the signing, PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Lorna McPherson emphasized what Manu’s addition means for the expansion club’s long-term vision. “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,” she said. “His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club. He understands the responsibility that comes with representing something bigger than himself, and we believe he can have a genuine impact on our young players and the next generation of Papua New Guineans who we are proud to represent as a club.”
Michael Chammas, the club’s general manager of football, echoed that excitement, praising Manu’s unique skill set and leadership qualities. “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. His experience and demonstrated success at the highest level will be a great benefit to our team and we can’t wait to see him have a significant impact in the Chiefs jersey.”
The signing of Manu caps off a months-long recruitment spree that has seen the upstart franchise assemble one of the most talented starting rosters in recent expansion history, cementing its status as one of the most anticipated new entries to the NRL in decades.