The Sydney Roosters were dealt yet another killer blow this week with news Joey Manu is set to pack his bags and leave at season's end. The superstar Kiwi utility back is jumping ship to rugby and looks set to sign with a French club, reportedly on a long-term deal. His departure leaves several questions hanging over his own future in rugby league, and the future of the Chooks. Here, we look at the most pressing. The Roosters were heavily tipped to win the premiership in 2023 and ultimately they were a bit disappointing. Their star-studded squad did make it to the second week of finals before being bundled out by Melbourne, but that could barely be considered a pass mark given the expectations on them earlier in the year. Now they look set for an exodus of star power once the 2024 campaign finishes. Manu and Joseph Suaalii are heading to rugby, while long-time enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is poised to retire from the NRL. Up and coming forward Terrell May is off-contract and has been open about his desire to play alongside his brothers, Taylan and Tyrone. Origin backrower Angus Crichton is also off contract and entertaining a switch to the 15-man code. The addition of Spencer Leniu this year is designed to plug the Waerea-Hargreaves gap in the middle, while Wallabies gun Mark Nawaqanitawase will fill one of the holes out wide left by Manu and Suaalii. But with one-time stars like James Tedesco and Luke Keary nearing the end, it's fair to suggest the Roosters will need a regeneration before too long. Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy has shown the blueprint for keeping his team towards the top of the ladder year after year, no matter who leaves. It's a task that now faces Chooks boss Trent Robinson in Bondi.
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