South Sydney set to take gamble on Josh Schuster for 2025 season

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have taken a bold gamble signing former Manly forward, Josh Schuster for the 2025 season.

Despite Manly terminating Schuster’s contract in April this year, The Daily Telegraph’s Michael Carayannis believes he could return to his best under Wayne Bennett.

Schuster has signed a $200,000 contract, which Carayannis describes as a cut-price deal and a great opportunity for both the Rabbitohs and Schuster heading into the new season.

"For the cost versus reward, I think it’s a great move for both parties,” Carayannis told SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“We know how talented Schuster is, we saw it in glimpses at the Sea Eagles where he rose to be one of the most exciting young players in the game."

Carayannis reflects on the off-field mental health issues Schuster was facing at Manly, but expects to see a new man when he wears the red and green and is glad to see a player like him given a second chance, which is rare in this industry.

“He has taken that time to train hard and try to get his life in order and refocus,” he said.

“He has impressed Wayne in their meetings together and now gets the opportunity to prove himself."

Following a challenging season for South Sydney, Carayannis is confident that Schuster’s addition to the team could reinvigorate the team’s creativity and performance. He expects to see a brand-new side to South Sydney under Bennett in 2025.

"I think he could be a real X-factor to that line up next year," he said.