Injured against the All Blacks and absent for several weeks, the neo-Tricolore Tevita Tatafu is still at the heart of an imbroglio concerning his future.
While persistent rumors send him to the Bordeaux-Bègles Union, the president of Aviron Bayonnais, Philippe Tayeb, clarified the situation this Friday, November 29. If Bordeaux's interest is real, the powerful pillar is still far from packing up.
“He is very happy here”: the president of Bayonne reacts
Questioned by L’Équipe, Philippe Tayeb was categorical: Tevita Tatafu is under contract with Rowing until 2026. « I haven't had an official transfer request. He is very happy here, he discovered the French team thanks to his work, also thanks to rowing. We've been taking care of him for a long time, the staff has been doing a crazy job with him “, he said.
These words recall the Basque club's investment in player development. Bayonne since 2019, Tatafu transformed his physique and was invited to the French XV after an impressive weight loss, recognized by all observers. His first selection against Japan at the beginning of November marked an important step in his career.
Despite Tayeb's words, the rumor persists. What about the clause in Tatafu’s contract allowing departure under certain conditions? For Bayonne, the stakes are high: protecting a key player who could help the club establish itself permanently in the Top 14.
Injury and uncertain future
Currently recovering, Tevita Tatafu will have to wait several weeks before returning to the field. A situation which could cool Bordeaux's enthusiasm and give Bayonne time to secure its nugget. Tayeb hopes to go even further: “ An extension? I hope so… “, he confided.
For now, Bayonne seems determined to keep its flagship player. Tatafu will have the last word, but one thing is certain: his future continues to be talked about in French rugby.
