Massive Blow for Sydney Roosters as Two Key Players Depart, Including Xavier Va’a Heading to English Super League
The Sydney Roosters have been dealt a significant setback with the departure of two key players confirmed today, as young prop Xavier Va’a officially signs a two-year deal with newly promoted English Super League side York Knights.
Va’a, 22, was released by the Tricolours at the end of December following a challenging tenure at Bondi that was marred by injuries. He made his solitary NRL appearance in mid-2024, coming off the bench and scoring a try just 49 seconds into the match against the Cronulla Sharks – a memorable debut that highlighted his raw potential. Signed from the Brisbane Broncos academy alongside his brother De La Salle, Va’a also captained Queensland in the under-19 State of Origin series and has 44 appearances in the New South Wales Cup to his name, including 12 strong showings in 2025.
Standing at 195 centimetres and weighing 114 kilograms, Va’a is regarded as one of the game’s most promising young forwards. York Knights head coach Mark Applegarth expressed his excitement about the signing, stating: “He comes highly recommended and his footage looks exactly like the sort of player we were after, but more importantly he seems the kind of player who will fit the culture we have at York. He’s come here to improve and to make his mark and he will add a lot of depth to our pack and a lot of punch.”
Va’a echoed the sentiment, saying: “It’s a fresh new start for me. I’ve heard a lot of great things about York, the area and the club. It just felt right to take this opportunity. Honestly I’m so grateful and excited. I’m looking forward to meeting all the boys and getting to work.” His brother De La Salle remains with the Roosters and will push for NRL selection in 2026.
In a further blow to the club, details of a second key departure were also announced today, though full information is yet to be released by Roosters management. The exits come as the Tricolours continue to rebuild following the departures of Luke Keary to Catalans Dragons and Joseph Manu to Japanese rugby in recent seasons, with coach Trent Robinson previously hinting at potential moves in the transfer market to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2026 NRL campaign.
York Knights will open their inaugural Super League season against reigning champions Hull KR on February 12.
