SEA EAGLES LEGEND IN LINE FOR RETURN
Manly Sea Eagles legend Brett Stewart could be set for a return to the club, with coach Kieran Foran reportedly keen to bring the former fullback back to the Northern Beaches in a coaching capacity for the 2027 season.
According to reports from News Corp, Foran is interested in having Stewart involved as Manly begins planning for a new era and looks to build towards another premiership challenge.
FORAN WANTS STEWART INVOLVED
Stewart remains one of the most recognisable figures in the history of the Sea Eagles, and his potential return would give the club access to a former star with an intimate understanding of Manly’s culture.
It is understood that Foran would like Stewart to become involved around the training environment, particularly in developing the club’s emerging fullbacks.
However, Stewart has reportedly yet to make a final decision on whether he wants to take up a formal coaching position.
FULLBACK DEVELOPMENT A PRIORITY
One of the major reasons behind the reported interest is Stewart’s experience as one of the NRL’s premier attacking fullbacks.
Manly currently has several players competing for opportunities in the position, including Tom Trbojevic, Lehi Hopoate, Tolutau Koula and Clayton Faulalo.
Having Stewart around the training field could provide those players with the opportunity to learn from someone who excelled in the role throughout an outstanding NRL career.
A MANLY ICON
Stewart’s playing record underlines his standing within the club.
The former fullback scored 163 tries in 233 appearances for Manly, establishing himself as one of the most prolific try scorers in Sea Eagles history.
His speed, positioning, support play and ability to finish attacking movements made him a key part of Manly’s success during his playing career.
For supporters, his potential return would therefore carry significant sentimental value.
THE PRINCE OF BROOKVALE
Stewart became affectionately known as the “Prince of Brookvale” during his time with the Sea Eagles, reflecting his popularity among Manly supporters.
A return to the club would give fans an opportunity to see one of their favourite former players once again involved with the team.
It could also provide Stewart with a new avenue to contribute to the club after spending his playing career representing Manly.
BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION
Foran’s reported interest appears to extend beyond nostalgia.
The development of young talent will be an important part of Manly’s future, particularly as the club looks to establish a strong roster capable of challenging consistently.
Stewart’s potential involvement could therefore be centred on passing knowledge and experience to the next generation of Sea Eagles players.
WAITING ON A DECISION
While the prospect of Stewart returning has generated plenty of interest among Manly supporters, no formal coaching appointment has been confirmed.
The former star will reportedly need to decide whether he wants to commit to a coaching role before the club can determine the next step.
For now, the possibility remains intriguing: Brett Stewart could once again be walking onto the Manly training field, this time as a mentor rather than a player.
If the move eventuates, the “Prince of Brookvale” would begin another chapter in his long association with the Sea Eagles.