Joey Manu joins the PNG Chiefs as Pacific’s newest code-switcher

Joseph ‘Joey’ Manu is coming home to rugby league and he is bringing his Pacific identity with him.

The Cook Islands and Māori star will become the first player from rugby union to join the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs, signing a two-year deal for the club’s inaugural NRL seasons in 2028 and 2029.

The 30-year-old is currently playing rugby union in France’s Top 14 for Racing 92, where his contract expires next May.

Manu has already made his mark in both codes but his move to the Chiefs is about more than a return to the game that made him a star.

With ties to Aitutaki through his father, Manu toured PNG last month and met with Prime Minister James Marape.

He said they shared a vision for the Chiefs to be more than a PNG club.

Joseph Manu. Photo/Steven Markham/Photosport.

“Talking to the prime minister and how passionate he was about making it not just a PNG team, but a Pacific team and trying to get the Pacific nations behind this team, I think it’s going to be special,” ABC News reported.

“I’m a really proud Cook Island and Māori man, and I know my family’s real proud back in Tokoroa in New Zealand and also in the Cook Islands too.

“It’s a big decision to make, but bringing that positive impact to PNG but also young Pacific Island kids (is big).

“There’s so much talent in the Pacific Islands, and rugby league is taking over the islands, so it’s really cool to have a Pacific team.”

Manu joins a growing list of Pacific stars signed by the Chiefs including Brian To’o, Jarome Luai and Alex Johnston.

Lorna McPherson, PNG Chiefs chief executive, said Manu’s value goes beyond what he can produce on 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 in a media release.

“His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club.”

McPherson says Manu also understands the responsibility that comes with representing something bigger than himself.

Joseph Manu will be teammates with Toa Sāmoa internationals Jarome Luai (L) and Brian To’o (R). Photo/Dave Hunt/Photosport.

“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,” she said.

Manu arrives with serious league credentials.

He won two NRL premierships with the Sydney Roosters, made 181 NRL appearances, played 17 Tests for the New Zealand Kiwis and won the 2022 Golden Boot.

Even while playing union, Manu has kept an eye on the NRL.

“I still keep a close eye on a few games and I get to watch a few games when I can,” he told the ABC.

“You miss certain things when you’re watching. I’m just grateful that I get to come back and play. I really enjoy playing rugby league, so I’m excited.

“Rugby league is a special game for myself, and to come back and play in the NRL is very special.”

Manu’s Racing 92 contract runs until next May, which means he could return to the NRL for part of next season before linking up with the Chiefs in 2028.