Roosters premiership winner Spencer Leniu has quit the club just days after the NRL grand final ahead of an expected move to Parramatta.
The 26-year-old’s exit was announced at the Roosters’ awards night on Wednesday and confirmed with a statement the following day.
He will now turn his attentions to Samoa’s Rugby League World Cup campaign before linking up with the Eels late in the pre-season.
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“I’ve loved my time at the Roosters and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this club,” Leniu said.
“I came here wanting to challenge myself and grow as a player and as a person, and I feel like I’ve done that. I’ve learnt a lot from Robbo (Trent Robinson) and the coaches, and I’ve been lucky to play alongside a great group of boys who have become my brothers.
“To finish my time here as a premiership winner is really special. Winning a premiership with this group and sharing that with the boys, our families and everyone at the club is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
“There are a lot of people at the club who have looked after me and my family from the day I arrived, and that’s something I’ll always appreciate.
“I’m proud to have worn the Roosters jersey and I’ll always have a lot of love and respect for the club, the boys and everyone who has supported me during my time here.”
Leniu follows Daniel Tupou (retiring), Daly Cherry-Evans (Hull FC), Connor Watson (St George Illawarra), Mark Nawaqanitawase (Japanese rugby) and Angus Crichton (NSW Waratahs) out the exit door.
Leniu joined the Roosters ahead of the 2024 season after winning three straight premierships with Penrith.
He will reunite with fellow ex-Panthers star Jarome Luai at the Eels.
Robinson praised Leniu’s efforts at the Roosters.
“Spencer has brought a lot to our group over the last three years, both through the way he plays and the energy and personality he brings every day,” the coach said.
“He came to the Roosters wanting to challenge himself and continue to grow, and we’ve seen him develop not only as a player, but as a leader within our group.
“Spenny has a strong moral compass. He knows what he stands for, he cares deeply about his teammates and the people around him, and he’s never afraid to speak up for what he believes in. Those qualities have made him an important and respected leader within our group.
“He brings an intensity and competitiveness to everything he does, and he challenges the people around him to be better.
“He’s built some really strong relationships across our Club and has been an important part of our group. To see him finish his time here as a Premiership winner is something he should be really proud of, and something we’ll always share together.
“We wish Spencer, Alexia and Izaiah all the best for what comes next.”
