Joseph Manu begins career with Japanese rugby side Toyota Verblitz

Just ten days on from the end of his time at the Sydney Roosters Joey Manu is back in training - watch as he comes to grips with the challenges of Japanese rugby.

Footage of former Roosters star Joey Manu training with his new Japanese rugby union club has emerged just 10 days after he quit the NRL.

Manu shocked the Sydney Roosters with his decision halfway through this year to sign with Toyota Verblitz in the Japan One competition for the upcoming 2024-2025 season.

Manu, 28, declared he wanted a new challenge after nine seasons in the NRL.

That’s exactly what the Kiwi international will get with Manu transferring almost immediately from a gruelling season with the Roosters, which ended in a preliminary final defeat to the Melbourne Storm 10 days ago, to starting pre-season training with Toyota Verblitz.

Manu is aiming to play in Toyota Verblitz’s first match of the season on December 22 against Spears Kubota.

The video shows Manu pushing himself physically with agility drills, sprints, bear crawls and ball work alongside his new teammates last Monday.

Under the watchful eye of Toyota Verblitz director of rugby and former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, Manu was also asked to introduce himself to his teammates.

Joey manu joining the Toyota verblitz pic.twitter.com/dXpX4Qc7qD

— pyro (@I__9915) October 6, 2024

Manu required a Japanese translator to communicate his name and where he has come from to the team.

“Hi, my name is Joseph Manu,’’ the former Roosters centre said.

“I’m from New Zealand, I’ve been playing rugby league over in Australia for the last few years.

“I’m happy to be here, I’m really excited and I’m looking forward to meeting you all.’’

Manu has given no indication if he plans to return to the Roosters once his contract at Toyota Verblitz expires.