Luke Keary has put his career plans into action: he has decided to continue playing in 2025 and has signed a two-year contract with the Catalans in the English Super League.
After signing a one-year deal with the Sydney Roosters in February, Keary announced in April that 2024 would instead be his final season.
The 32-year-old has now reversed his decision and will instead play for two more years in the south of France.
After speculation first surfaced in June and Keary’s management denied it, Catalans confirmed the deal on Saturday.
“I am delighted to be joining the Catalans Dragons and look forward to contributing to the club’s success,” Keary said in a statement.
Keary has been in excellent form since announcing his retirement plans in April and has maintained a close bond with Catalans coach Steve McNamara.
His decision to continue playing next season comes during a busy year for the Roosters squad.
After Keary initially decided to continue playing in 2025, Joey Manu decided to pursue a rugby career and signed a contract in Japan.
Otherwise, Manu would have been able to move to the link/eighth position with the Roosters to take over Keary’s jersey in 2025.
Instead, the club will now likely use Sandon Smith and Sam Walker in the halves, while Chad Townsend brings experience as a substitute.
Experienced prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves will retire from the NRL at the end of the season and move to the Super League, while Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will switch to rugby.
Keary’s contract comes after the Catalans released fellow Roosters Jayden Nikorima and Siosiua Taukeiaho on Friday for failing to meet club standards.
It was reported from England that the couple called in sick because of training and attended a concert instead.