Luke Keary has gone full circle on his retirement plans, opting to play on in 2025 and sign a two-year deal with Catalans in the English Super League.
After re-signing with the Sydney Roosters in February on a one-year deal, Keary announced in April he would instead make 2024 his last season.
But the 32-year-old has since gone back on that decision, and instead will play on for another two years in the south of France.
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After first being speculated in June and denied by Keary’s management, Catalans confirmed the deal on Saturday.
“I am really excited to join Catalans Dragons. I am looking forward to contributing to the club’s success,” Keary said in a statement.
Keary, who on Friday was ruled out of the NSW Origin squad for the lead-up to Wednesday’s decider due to injury, has been in terrific form since announcing his retirement plans in April.
He has a close bond with Catalans coach Steve McNamara.
His decision to play on next season comes in a busy year for the Roosters’ roster.
With Keary having initially decided to play on in 2025, Joey Manu made the call to pursue a career in rugby and signed a deal in Japan.
Manu would otherwise have been an option to move to five-eighth for the Roosters and take Keary’s jersey in 2025.
Instead, the club will now likely partner Sandon Smith and Sam Walker in the halves, with Chad Townsend providing experience as a back-up.
Veteran prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves will retire from the NRL at season’s end and head to the Super League, while Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is bound for rugby.
Keary’s deal comes after Catalans released fellow Roosters Jayden Nikorima and Siosiua Taukeiaho on Friday, for failing to meet club standards.
It has been reported in England the pair called in sick to training, and instead attended a concert.
