With five new individuals arriving straight from the Top 14, FC Grenoble Rugby clearly displays its ambitions. After an honorary career but without progress during the two previous seasons in Pro D2, the Isère club seems to have learned lessons, offering itself a rejuvenation and experience which could prove to be a centerpiece of a campaign of successful promotion.
Names that rhyme with experience and potential
Julien Hériteau, Kamilieni Rasaku, Giorgi Kveseladze, Thomas Ployet, Tommy Raynaud – these are the surnames that attract the attention of the rugby world. Three of these players have signed a three-year contract, showing a medium-term investment for their new Grenoble colors.
While Julien Hériteau will leave Clermont to put his center skills to the benefit of FCG, the Fijian international from Bayonne, I feel, and the Georgian center Kveseladze will spice up a back line already full of promise.
Weight and height in front pack
Thomas Ployet, promising second line from La Rochelle, and Tommy Raynaud, experienced pillar and captain at Oyonnax, join the Grenoble team, the first on loan, the second playing the role of medical joker. With these arrivals, the FCG gains both in density and in tactical options to endure the tough competition from Pro D2 and, potentially, approach the next level with hope.
A clear strategy for long-awaited success
Patrick Goffi, the president of Grenoble, seems to have a precise vision. Align a group capable of not only dominating in Pro D2, but also of flying the club’s colors high within the elite of French rugby.
These talented signings symbolize a real leap forward for the Alpine entity, which could thus get closer to its dream of ascent.
Looking to the future
It is still too early to judge the results that this new recruitment dynamic will bring to FC Grenoble Rugby. However, optimism is in order, and supporters can certainly dream of better days.
After all, with an XXL recruitment, the horizon seems to be emerging with more certainty and audacity for the Isérois. The coming season will tell us if these bold choices turn out to be the perfect ingredients for a winning recipe.
Photo : Icon Sport
