Former Canterbury Bulldogs forward Chris Patolo looks set to take his career to the Super League after a challenging 2025 season at Manly.
Once touted as a future star of the Bulldogs’ pack, the prop has struggled with injuries and limited first-grade chances, leaving him without a contract for next year.
According to All Out Rugby League, Patolo has been identified as a potential recruit for Super League clubs, with multiple teams keen to bolster their forward stocks ahead of 2026. His management has reportedly shopped him around, opening the door for an overseas move.
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Fresh platform to revive career
The 25-year-old is hoping the switch will provide regular game time and a chance to reignite his career. The Super League has increasingly become a pathway for Australian players who need a fresh start or a platform to showcase their abilities before returning to the NRL.
After his early promise with the Bulldogs and subsequent move to the Sea Eagles, Patolo’s NRL trajectory has stalled. The move overseas could offer the stability and opportunity he needs to regain form, with clubs in the Super League recognising his potential to make an impact in the forwards.
For Patolo, the next season represents more than a new league; it is a chance to rebuild confidence, put injuries behind him, and show he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.