Joey Manu to Skip NRL Return to Focus on 2027 World Cup

Joey Manu, a former star of the National Rugby League (NRL), is currently navigating a major career transition.

After moving to France to play for Racing 92 in 2024, Manu has set his sights on a new goal: representing the All Blacks at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

While there was widespread speculation in 2025 that the homesick star might return to the NRL to play for teams like the New Zealand Warriors, those rumors have cooled.

Currently, Manu is fully committed to his professional obligations in the French Top 14.

To achieve his dream of playing in the World Cup, Manu knows he must balance the demands of rugby union with the logistical reality that he may eventually need to return to New Zealand to qualify for national selection.

For now, the transition from rugby league to union remains his primary focus, proving that chasing international glory requires both tactical skill and significant personal sacrifice.