LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Two-time premiership winner Joey Manu is reportedly considering a return to the NRL this season, with a potential move to the New Zealand Warriors.
Manu left the Sydney Roosters at the end of last season to play rugby union in Japan, but a change of heart has seen him seek an NRL comeback on compassionate grounds.
While he previously expressed reluctance to play for a rival NRL club, uncertainty surrounding Warriors fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad's future could pave the way for Manu to join the Auckland-based team.
Nicoll-Klokstad is rumored to be considering a move to the Super League in England from 2026, potentially opening up a spot for Manu at the Warriors.
Former NRL player Denan Kemp believes that playing fullback at the Warriors may present the best opportunity for Manu's return to the NRL, as a comeback to the Roosters could see him playing out of position in the centres.
Kemp also highlights potential salary cap implications for Manu's return to the Roosters, as well as the presence of star fullback James Tedesco on the team.
Despite spending 10 years at the Roosters and considering it his home club, Manu's desire for a more prominent role on the field could see him make a surprising move to the Warriors.
With the NRL season already underway, Manu's potential return to the competition adds intrigue to the player movement landscape.