Sad news: A Manly Sea Eagles star declines contract extension and joins a rival club….
Sad news: A Manly Sea Eagles star declines contract extension and joins a rival club
In a major blow to the Manly Sea Eagles, star forward Haumole Olakau’atu has officially declined a contract extension and will depart the club at the end of the 2025 NRL season, signing a multi-year deal with a rival Sydney-based team.
The 26-year-old back-rower, who has been a key figure in Manly’s forward pack since debuting in 2019, reportedly turned down a lucrative three-year extension to pursue a fresh challenge elsewhere. Sources close to the situation indicate that personal factors and long-term career ambitions played a significant role in his decision.
“This wasn’t an easy call. Manly has been home for a long time and I’m grateful for everything the club has done for me,” Olakau’atu said in a statement. “But I feel the time is right for a new chapter.”
Sea Eagles coach Anthony Seibold expressed disappointment but wished Olakau’atu well. “He’s been a tremendous player and person at our club. We’ll miss him, but we respect his choice.”
The unnamed rival club is expected to officially announce the signing in the coming days. Manly now faces the challenge of reshaping their forward pack ahead of 2026, with pressure mounting to secure a suitable replacement.
