TOUGH DECISION: Roosters Superstar Quits club, Says he wants new challenge.

Now he will leave the Tricolours club and has signed a deal reportedly worth north of $1 million per-season to try his hand at the 15-man code.

“I have cherished my time playing rugby league for the Roosters, so it’s been a tough decision to leave the club and NRL,” Manu said in a club statement.

“I will always be grateful to wear the Roosters jersey and to everyone who has supported me and provided me with some incredible opportunities.

“While I’m excited to embrace the challenge of playing rugby in Japan, right now I am focused on finishing this year strongly and performing at my very best for the Roosters.”

Manu’s departure is another hammer blow for the Roosters who are already set to lose young gun Joseph Suaalii to Rugby Australia at the season’s end.

He signed a three-year deal worth north of $5 million dollars to play for both the Wallabies and Waratahs ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australian soil.

Roosters head coach Trent Robinson revealed Manu had always had desires to travel abroad and play rugby union.

“Joey has been open about his desire to experience the challenge of living overseas with his young family, and of playing in a different environment, so while we are sad to see him go, we fully support him,” Robinson said.

“Joey will always be a Rooster. He is very clear on what he wants to achieve this season and we look forward to sharing the year ahead.”