Joseph “Joey” Manu is not expected to return to the Sydney Roosters in the second half of the 2025 NRL season. In April 2024, Manu announced his decision to leave the Roosters at the conclusion of the 2024 season to join Japanese rugby union club Toyota Verblitz.
Manu, who had been with the Roosters since his NRL debut in 2016, expressed his gratitude for his time at the club, stating, “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 conveyed his excitement about the new challenge in Japan, emphasizing his focus on finishing the 2024 season strongly with the Roosters. (
Following his move to Japan, there was speculation about the duration of Manu’s stint in rugby union and the possibility of an early return to the NRL. However, Manu clarified his intentions, stating that he plans to commit more than six months to rugby union and does not anticipate a return to the Roosters in 2025. He mentioned, “I probably need a little bit more than six months over there. Going to Japan is a good experience for myself and my family. Just enjoying something different.
Given these statements and his current commitment to Toyota Verblitz, it is unlikely that Joey Manu will rejoin the Sydney Roosters during the 2025 NRL season. His focus remains on adapting to rugby union and making the most of his experience in Japan.
