Jamal Fogarty’s $2 million switch to Manly has raised eyebrows among rugby league heavyweights, with NRL Immortal Mal Meninga suggesting the halfback may have sold himself short.
The Canberra playmaker has confirmed he’ll leave the Raiders at the end of the season to join the Sea Eagles on a three-year deal believed to be worth around $700,000 annually.
While Meninga acknowledged Fogarty’s rise has been impressive, he believes a shorter contract might’ve left the door open for even greater opportunities.
“If I’m advising him…”
Speaking to SEN 1170 Afternoons, Meninga said: “I’m disappointed for the club but I’m happy for Jamal. A three-year contract and the money they’re talking about is exceptional, and who would have thought half a dozen years ago that he’s earning $700k a year joining a club as a major playmaker. So good on him — he’s worked his butt off.”
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“(But) If I’m managing him or advising him — which I’m not — I would sign a two-year contract and tell him to back himself. Take the two years, 2026-27, and set himself up for the Bears or the PNG side.”
Meninga believes Fogarty, who is Indigenous and a proud Queenslander, would be the perfect figurehead for a future PNG NRL outfit. “I think he would be great for the PNG side… He’s an invaluable position, and then you look at the money and the opportunity — he would be silly not to have a look at it.”
“PNG has a bad rap at times, but I can assure you if you’re playing league out there, you will be walking around like a king.”
Despite questioning the length of the contract, Meninga had nothing but respect for the 30-year-old’s decision. “You can’t really criticise him for this. I know he loves it down there and his family is settled, but rugby league careers only last a certain time, and you’ve got to look after yourself.”
“He wasn’t unloyal to the club, he hasn’t broken a contract — he’s looking after his post-career. I imagine the club will wish him all the best, and hopefully Manly get a great player for three years.”