The Toulouse Stadium formalized the loan of its promising young player, Leo Labartheau Soyaux Angoulême XV (SA XV) for the rest of the season Pro D2. At the age of 20, Labarthe joined Charente to gain playing time and strengthen the club's second line, which coincided with the departure of the Irish player. Matt Dalton.
A strategic choice for Toulouse and a great opportunity for Labarthe
Trained at Stade Toulousain, Léo Labarthe has already distinguished himself in French rugby by winning two titles with the Toulouse hopefuls. Last year, he even made his debut in Top 14replacing in two matches against Clermont and Perpignan.
By joining the SA XV, Labarthe will now be able to acquire valuable experience in Pro D2a championship where the physical needs and commitment are similar to the requirements of the Top 14. This loan is part of a Stade Toulousain strategy aimed at strengthening the experience of its young players in clubs where they will have more time to play. game.
Strengthen the second line of the SA XV
Léo Labarthe arrives as an “additional player”, joining an already well-developed forward line at the SA XV, which includes players like Nabou, Kitwanga, Beukeboom, Léo and Enzo Morand-Bruyatas well as the versatile Lemardelet. This bench depth, reinforced by the arrival of Labarthe, could be decisive for the Angoumois club in its quest for stability in Pro D2.
The departure of Irishman Matt Dalton, made official this week, frees up a place for this new recruit. Arriving in 2023 from Newcastle, Dalton will ultimately have played 17 matches in the Charente jersey. The two parties separated by mutual agreement, thus offering Labarthe an opportunity to establish himself within the group.
A young talent who already knows the high level
Léo Labarthe is not unknown to French rugby. Before joining the Toulouse hopefuls, he began his training at Lacapelle-Marival in the Lot, a journey which led him to a first selection with the team of France U20. His debut in Top 14, although limited, allowed him to approach the next level. By playing in Pro D2, he will be able to forge his skills in a demanding championship and develop his game in real situations, an essential step for a possible career at the highest level.
This loan is therefore a boon for the SA XV, which recovers a dynamic and promising player, and for Stade Toulousain, which could see Labarthe return with valuable experience. For now, the SA XV enthusiastically welcomes this Toulouse hopeful who will be expected on the pitch from the next days of Pro D2.
I grew up in a family where rugby was at all times. I was at the edge of the pitch when Castres beat Pau and joined the elite, I was in the Stade Pierre Antoine facing Gary Whetton when he did his Haka to celebrate the 1993 Brennus and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
