Justin Sangaré, pillar of Leeds Rhinos, looks back on the Super League season and discusses his ambitions for next season.
What do you think of your season collectively and individually?
I think it’s been a year like a roller coaster with achievements like beating Wigan and Leigh. Individually, I learned a lot about starting matches. The change of coach was a good test, adapting to a new culture, a new style of coaching.
What are the big differences that you have noticed compared to your years at TO?
The big difference for me is the weight of Leeds with its history. It is one of the biggest clubs. Leeds is an industry, every year they manage to bring out a gem and for me, it’s a great pride to wear this jersey.
The TO is also a big club with a lot of ambitions, in a few years, they will succeed in doing what the Dragons did.
Which team have impressed you the most this season and what do you think of champion Wigan?
For me, Hull KR impressed me from the start to the end of the season. They all broke, too bad for the final. Wigan were above, nothing to say. Plus it was the 2024 steamroller.
How are you feeling in your new life in England?
England is a very special country. It wasn’t easy, but we adapted better the second year.
What are your goals next season?
Objective: make the final stages. It makes you dream of lifting this Super League trophy.
Your two brothers play at XIII, Paul in Super XIII and Ryan in U17, do you follow their career?
Yes of course, originally, we were all supposed to play football, it makes you proud to see the next generation.
Leeds have recruited some heavyweights up front with Jenkins, Palasia and behind Connor, what do you think of this competition?
I think this can be beneficial for the group and raise the level of the group.
