NZ Kiwis star Joseph Manu has confirmed he will switch from league to rugby, when he joins Japanese club side Toyota Verblitz after this NRL season.
Manu, 27, had previously hinted at the move, but has now officially informed his Sydney Roosters club of the code switch.
"I have cherished my time playing rugby league for the Roosters, so it's been a tough decision to leave the club and NRL," he said. "I will always be grateful to wear the Roosters jersey, and to everyone who has supported me and provided me with some incredible opportunities.
"While I'm excited to embrace the challenge of playing rugby in Japan, right now I am focused on finishing this year strongly and performing at my very best for the Roosters."
Manu has amassed 164 games for the Roosters, since his 2016 debut, playing most positions across the backline, but primarily at centre. He won NRL premierships with the club in 2018 and 2019, and was named Dally M Centre of the Year in 2022.
"Joey has been open about his desire to experience the challenge of living overseas with his young family and of playing in a different environment, so while we are sad to see him go, we fully support him," said Roosters coach Trent Robinson.
Manu will also be a big loss to the NZ national team, after 16 tests. He starred at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup, where he was named in the tournament team and awarded the Golden Boot, as international player of the year.
Playing at fullback, he entered the record books with 401 running metres against Mate Ma'a Tonga in a 26-6 win at Mt Smart Stadium in 2022.
Former All Blacks coaches Sir Steve Hansen is head of rugby at Toyota Verblitz, with successor Ian Foster about to join him on the club's staff. Their roster currently includes former All Blacks Aaron Smith and Beauden Barrett.
