Tim Mannah’s 233-game NRL career is over after the Parramatta fan favourite announced his retirement at season’s end.

Off-contract at the end of the year, Mannah confirmed on Saturday he wouldn’t seek a deal elsewhere and would instead move into an administration role at the Eels.

A former NSW State of Origin prop, Mannah has struggled for time in first grade this year after being dropped in round 12.

He will instead run out in the reserve grade grand final for Wentworthville at Bankwest Stadium on Sunday, with the potential to play in the national final next week.

“I’ve had a great time in the game and it’s given me and my family so much,” Mannah said.

“I’m extremely grateful for the support I’ve received from the Eels and our passionate Blue and Gold Army, I truly believe we have the best fans in the world.

“I’ll always have amazing memories of the experiences I’ve had and the people I’ve met along the way, but now I’m excited to open a new chapter in my career.”

A Parramatta junior, Mannah debuted for the Eels in 2009 and played for the club in that year’s run to the grand final.

He played his maiden Origin for NSW in 2010 and all three matches the following year.

But it has been a desire to remain solid to the Eels that has made him a favourite.

One of the few consistent performers through their dark years, he was the club’s player of the year in 2015 and is the sixth most-capped Eel of all time.

The 31-year-old had been linked to a move to Wests Tigers midway through the season, but instead decided to finish his career at Parramatta.

“On behalf of everyone at Parramatta Eels, we’d like to congratulate Tim on an incredible rugby league career,” chief executive Bernie Gurr said.

“We are very pleased he will remain an Eel, as he makes his transition into life after football and forges an equally successful career off the field.”