Joseph Manu to leave Racing 92 for rugby league

Joseph Manu will return to rugby league after the 2026-27 season, ending his spell with Racing 92 and beginning a new chapter with the PNG Chiefs. The New Zealand centre has signed a two-year agreement with the Papua New Guinean franchise, which is due to enter the NRL in 2028. His move gives the new club an established international name for its launch into the leading competition in Oceania.

Manu, 30, spent his entire professional career in rugby league before changing codes in 2024. He joined Toyota in Japan for his first season in rugby union and then moved to Racing 92 last summer. Since arriving in France, he has played 22 matches for the club and scored one try, against Clermont. He can operate at centre or on the wing.

Before his eventual departure, Manu will start a second Top 14 campaign with Racing. The club’s opening assignment is away to Bordeaux-Bègles next week, against a side that has won the European Cup twice. Manu remains one of Racing’s highest-paid players, and his exit before the 2027-28 season will help the club fund the arrival of Thomas Ramos after the World Cup.

The PNG Chiefs see Manu as more than a back-line recruit. His Pacific connection, experience and profile are expected to support the franchise’s development, particularly among its young players. The club also hopes to attract Ardie Savea after the World Cup, as it builds a squad for its planned NRL entry in 2028.