The 27-year-old is one of the outstanding players in the 13-a-side game and has been linked with a move to rugby union.
Sydney Roosters star Manu could be set to sign for a team in Japan where he may be able to command a contract worth around $1.5m a season.
Unfortunately for union, Manu may only be around the sport for a year before heading back to the Roosters in 2025.
“When you’re an elite player like Joey is, that’s what you can do,” Williams told the Sydney Morning Herald.
“As long as it’s done respectfully, he deserves a chance to see what’s there for himself.
“I’m proud of him for stepping out there and doing his thing. When you have that talent, that talent deserves to be seen.”
Japan has been an attractive proposition for a number of union stars recently, with plenty of Springboks and All Blacks currently plying their trade in Asia.
It now seems like rugby league players are also being enticed by a big payday in the Japan Rugby League One.
And Williams, who played for Panasonic Wild Knights in 2012, believes that Manu will enjoy his time in the competition should he sign.
High tempo
“The beauty of Japanese rugby, and it shocked me, is how fast the game is,” Williams said.
“It’s a fast tempo and great skills. It’s like the Samurai movies where they train from dusk until dawn.
“These lads are at training two hours early working on their skills and finer details of the game to make up for the smaller size and different physicality.
“I think it’ll be good for Joey, and he’ll come back with a really enhanced skill level – that’s what I found from my time [in Japan].
“It’ll be such a good experience for him, and stepping out of his comfort zone, that should be applauded.”
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