The Manly Sea Eagles’ presence in the finals will be missed by several top teams, as their 2025 season was marked by inconsistency, resulting in a narrow two-point miss for the finals. Despite having the potential to challenge any opponent, their performance lacked necessary victories throughout the year.
A pivotal moment came in March when captain Daly Cherry-Evans announced he would leave the club in 2026, seemingly unsettling the team’s dynamics. Following this announcement, the Sea Eagles suffered a disappointing run, losing four out of five matches, which hindered their playoff ambitions.
However, they did finish the season on a positive note, claiming three consecutive victories and scoring over 100 points, potentially securing coach Anthony Seibold’s position while setting a foundation for the future. The Trbojevic brothers, key players for Manly, faced injury challenges, compounding the team’s issues.
Injuries significantly impacted their front-line performance, with several players limited to only a few games. Looking ahead to 2026, the Sea Eagles are set for a new chapter with the acquisition of Jamal Fogarty, who will likely take over playmaking duties, complementing the team’s evolving dynamics alongside promising young talent Joey Walsh.
Seibold is expected to make further signings to strengthen the squad, with a focus on enhancing their competitiveness. Among the season’s highlights, Tolu Koula emerged as a key asset, scoring 17 tries in 22 matches, showcasing his potential for a bright future. Conversely, Haumole Olakau’atu, a renowned forward, had a lackluster year due to injuries, disappointing fans given his capabilities.
The Sea Eagles face a transformation ahead, navigating significant roster changes as they bid farewell to Cherry-Evans while aiming to rejuvenate the team for the upcoming season.