Joey Manu convinced by PNG PM to join Chiefs in NRL return
Rugby star Joey Manu has committed to joining the PNG Chiefs for their inaugural 2028 NRL season. Manu cited a personal conversation with Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape as a key factor in his decision to return to rugby league.
Why it matters
The expansion of the NRL into Papua New Guinea represents a significant cultural and sporting investment in the Pacific region.
Joey Manu will play for the PNG Chiefs in 2028. ( Getty Images: Fiona Goodall )
PNG Chiefs' latest signing Joey Manu says a conversation with Papua New Guinea's prime minister was part of the reason he chose to join the expansion side.
Manu is currently playing rugby union in France, but has signed for the Chiefs' maiden NRL season in 2028.
The PNG outfit will officially be able to hit the open market in November, with all eyes on whether Nathan Cleary or Sam Walker will still be available at that point.
Link copied Share Share article Joey Manu has revealed how a conversation with Papua New Guinea's prime minister helped convince him to return to the NRL and join the Chiefs in 2028.
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