5. Prediction
12th
There's no doubt that Manly enter 2021 with a "top heavy" squad. DCE, Jake and Tommy Trbojevic are so important to this side. If those three fire then there's no reason why Manly shouldn't be right in the finals charge. That said, if any experience a drop off in form or miss extended time it could spell trouble.
Dylan Walker needs a big season while Marty Taupau needs to return to his destructive best. Aloiai is a clever in but Taupau needs to reclaim his pack leader role now that AFB has moved across the Tasman.
Foran's return could be a masterstroke if he can stay fit. Unfortunately for both Manly and Foran himself, recent history suggests that is a big if.
Truthfully a lot of Manly's intimidation has fallen away. They no longer have the fierce forward pack to belt sides off the park, while their Brookvale home ground no longer shapes as the fixture travelling teams fear the most.
There is plenty of talent in this squad but also too many questions to confidently predict a top eight finish.
If DCE and Turbo fire, then who knows? If Foran returns to his best ... If Turbo stays fit ... If, if if.
Too many questions for those in Maroon and White. Could be a long season ahead unless a lot goes their way.
