Former Roosters star Joey Manu doesn’t appear to have interest in returning to the NRL anytime soon.
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There have been rumblings the Roosters are holding out hope that Manu and potentially Waratahs star Joseph Suaalii will one day return to the club, but those hopes have faded.
The SMH have reported that the club are no longer active in their plans to bring the code hopping duo back to the Roosters.
Given the latest development regarding Manu, it’s not much of a surprise, with the 29-year-old eyeing off a potential gig for NZ in the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Manu plays for French club Racing 92 but to be considered for the All Blacks next year, Manu will have to be contracted to a NZ club team.
“I’m over here (in France) at the moment. I’ll say I’d love to, but just see if it all works out. I know how much good talent there is in those teams,” Manu told AFP.
“I’d love to do that (play at the World Cup) but I just want to focus on this Top 14 season and keep improving.
Joey Manu in action for Racing 92.Source: Twitter
“I feel like I’ve come a long way from when I first started in Japan, but I know I’ve got a long way to go.”
The Roosters are also set to lose Angus Crichton (Waratahs) and Mark Nawaqanitawase (Panasonic Wild Knights) to the 15-man code next year.
Former Eel and Dragon Zac Lomax has also made the switch, impressing in a new sport since joining the Western Force.