The Gold Coast Titans have been urged to explore a sensational move for Manly Sea Eagles captain Daly Cherry-Evans following his decision to depart the club after the 2025 NRL season. Former Titans recruitment manager Scott Sattler has advocated for the club to forgive Cherry-Evans for his infamous 2015 backflip and pursue the veteran halfback as a marquee signing.
Cherry-Evans, who previously agreed to join the Titans in 2015 before reversing his decision to stay with Manly, has announced he will end his time with the Sea Eagles at the conclusion of next season. With current Titans head coach Des Hasler—who gave Cherry-Evans his NRL debut—leading the Gold Coast side, Sattler believes the timing is right for a reunion that could significantly boost the Titans’ squad.
“Cherry-Evans is a proven match-winner and still one of the best game managers in the NRL,” Sattler said. “With Des Hasler now at the helm of the Titans, the relationship is already there. If the Titans want to seriously compete for a premiership, they should go all out to bring him to the Gold Coast.”
A Chance for Redemption?
Cherry-Evans’ backflip on the Titans in 2015 was a pivotal moment in NRL history. After verbally agreeing to join the Titans on a lucrative deal, he ultimately reneged and signed a long-term extension with Manly. His decision left a sour taste for many on the Gold Coast, but with a decade having passed and Hasler’s influence in the picture, the narrative could change.
Hasler, who coached Cherry-Evans to a premiership in 2011, could play a key role in convincing the Queensland representative to finish his career at the Titans. Cherry-Evans has remained one of the most consistent halfbacks in the game, leading Queensland in State of Origin and maintaining a high level of performance for Manly.
Titans Eyeing Long-Term Success
The Titans, who have shown glimpses of potential but struggled for consistency, would benefit greatly from Cherry-Evans’ leadership and experience. His arrival could mentor emerging talents like Tanah Boyd and help instill a winning culture at the club.
“Des and Daly have a long-standing relationship built on trust and success,” Sattler added. “This could be a perfect way for Cherry-Evans to close out his career and for the Titans to make a genuine push for a title.”
With Cherry-Evans officially departing Manly after 2025, the Titans have a golden opportunity to rewrite history and potentially secure the experienced halfback as the missing piece in their pursuit of NRL glory.
