Retiring footy star makes stunning career switch as he locks in surprising new job with his former club

Kieran Foran will return to the Manly Sea Eagles three years after he departed the Brookvale Oval and will take up a new role as the club's assistant coach. 

While it had seemed as though the 35-year-old, who will hang up his footy boots at the end of this summer's Pacific Championships campaign, would stay with the Gold Coast Titans in an advisor capacity, it seems he is now set to kickstart a coaching career back in Sydney. 

The veteran five-eighth, who joined an illustrious list of names to have played 300 games in the NRL earlier this season, enjoyed two spells with the Sea Eagles during his glittering career, notably winning a premiership with the club back in 2011. 

Foran, who played 196 matches across nine seasons for the club, will join Manly on a two-year deal. 

'I'm stoked to be coming back to Manly, I really am,' he said.

'This club has been a huge part of my life and given me so much, and now I get to try and give a little back.

'I'm super excited to be working alongside Seibs and the team and I can't wait to rip in.'

Anthony Seibold added: 'It's wonderful to bring Kieran home to Manly,' Seibold said.

'He has Manly DNA and was a great servant to the club as a player and a premiership winner.

'He now starts the next chapter in his career as a coach and I'm excited for him.

'Having just retired as a player he understands the modern game at the highest level. 

'We will obviously assist Kieran in his formative coaching career as he learns his craft, but he will add great value to our playing group as a coach.

'Kieran will be a significant addition to our coaching staff as we undertake a new look in 2026.'

More to follow...