'Breath of fresh air': Foran revolution has Trbojevic eyeing 2027
- Author
- Timestamp
A refreshed Jake Trbojevic has revealed he is leaning towards playing on for another year in 2027 as he reaps the benefits of the Kieran Foran revolution at Manly.
Off-contract at the end of this season, the 32-year-old has a one-year offer sitting on the table should he decide to continue a decorated career with the Sea Eagles.
Jake Trbojevic Try
While he is yet to make a final decision, the club legend said his mindset has shifted dramatically since Foran took charge in Round 5.
"It's been a really enjoyable month of footy," Trbojevic said. "Having Foz take over has been a breath of fresh air. The month of footy we've put together makes life a lot easier.
"The last few weeks have definitely made things a lot easier. I want to make it a good decision for both me and the club. I don't want to be a burden or anything like that.
"We're always having a chat and there's great respect between both parties so [a decision] won't be far away."
Match: Panthers v Sea Eagles
Round 9 -
home Team
Panthers
1st Position
away Team
Sea Eagles
6th Position
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
Trbojevic will return to the field on Sunday night when the high-flying Sea Eagles take on Penrith at CommBank Stadium.
Manly haven't lost since Foran took over, but this week's match marks a new test against the competition leaders.
Trbojevic's mindset shift is a remarkable turnaround from where he was just a few months ago, with many outsiders calling for the former NSW skipper to hang up the boots.
A series of concussions brought an early end to his 2025 campaign, prompting the retirement calls, while his form also started to dip in a struggling Manly side.
Even Trbojevic concedes there were times when he felt this year would be his last in the NRL.
A lengthy lay-off over the summer provided the lock with the chance to refresh physically and mentally and he has played a key role in the Sea Eagles four-game winning streak.
Jake Trbojevic Try
Younger brother Tom Trbojevic admits it was hard to watch his sibling and teammate face heavy criticism throughout the past year but never doubted Jake's ability to return to form.
"Everyone cops criticism but I don't think he was playing as bad as everyone was saying," Trbojevic said. "We know what he's capable of and it's great that he's showing everyone up now.
"He's playing some of his best footy and really enjoying himself."
A local junior and club legend, Jake Trbojevic is a favourite son on the Northern Beaches.
The former NSW and Australian star will remain a fixture at the Sea Eagles long after he decides to hang up the boots.
Manly officials have no desire to rush the veteran into a decision for 2027, with CEO Jason King simply thrilled to see Trbojevic back in form.
First Take: Panthers v Sea Eagles
"The ball's in Jake's court," King told NRL.com. "We're keeping the dialogue open with Jake. He's a true Sea Eagles ambassador, a legend of the club and if he wants to continue playing next year he can happily do so at the Sea Eagles.
"He's been a warrior for us for a long period of time and seeing him play the quality of football he is at the moment is terrific. He's leading the club in a lot of different capacities.
"He's a leader in the community and leading on the park every weekend. You want all your players to have that energy, passion and enthusiasm for the club they're representing. To see that in Jake is what we expect and really good for the club."
