The PNG Chiefs are pleased to confirm the signing of two-time NRL Premiership winner and New Zealand international Joseph Manu on a two-year deal as the club continues to build a strong roster ahead of its inaugural season.
Currently playing for Racing 92 in French rugby union, Manu will become Chiefs Player #007 – joining Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax and Brian To’o as players signed to the club for the 2028 season.
He will link up with the Chiefs on a two-year deal for the 2028 and 2029 seasons.
Born in New Zealand with Māori and Cook Island descent, Manu made his first-grade debut in 2016 after an impressive junior rugby league career which included appearances in the U/19 Commonwealth Games in 2014 and Junior Kiwis in 2015.
Having won both the U/18’s (2014) and U/20’s (2016) competition with the Roosters, he won his first NRL Premiership with the Tricolours in 2018 – helping the club repeat their efforts the following year as they won the title again in 2019.
In addition to his 69 tries scored in 181 NRL games, Manu has also made 17 Test match appearances for New Zealand and was named the Golden Boot winner in 2022.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said the star outside back was another significant signing for the club both on and off 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. 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.”
PNG Chiefs General Manager – Football Michael Chammas said Manu would offer a great attacking threat and experience to the Chiefs’ roster.
“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."
