Roosters coach Trent Robinson says Joey Manu will be a huge loss when he heads to rugby in Japan.
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson fears this NRL season will be the last he’ll see of Joey Manu, with no agreement in place for a return following a stint in Japanese club rugby.
Manu will leave the Roosters at the end of 2024 after signing a one-year deal with Toyota Verblitz, and has made no commitment his Sydney club beyond that.
The Tricolours welcome skipper James Tedesco back from concussion for Thursday night’s clash with Melbourne, with Kiwi international Manu shifting from fullback back to the centres after starring at No.1 in their win over Newcastle.
Being able to dominate in both positions is a rare talent that the Roosters will miss, according to a shattered Robinson.
“It’s a huge loss for us and the game,” the coach said ahead of their battle with the second-placed Storm.
“It was done in the right way and it was really transparent but you can’t downplay losing Joey Manu; there’s not someone who’s going to walk in and do that role.
“I don’t know if he will be back … I’d like it to be the assumption that he does return here but there’s definitely nothing there about him returning otherwise I’d be a little bit happier right now.
