Due to a torn quadriceps that occurred during the match against Bayonne, Romain Briatte is on forced rest. The opportunity to take stock of the worrying context at Stade Français but also of his personal situation, he who is at the end of his contract next June.
The situation of the club
“We are coming out of 11 days of Top 14 under pressure. Starting a new competition will be good for the group. Great posters await us, starting this weekend on the Munster pitch. It's still exciting. I not talking about qualification here, but the idea is really to regain confidence Our situation is complicated in the Top 14. Twelfth in the standings with one point ahead of the play-off (Lyon), we obviously hoped for good. better. Our last matches are still of better quality, which allows us to keep hope. Unfortunately, we are dragging this defeat at home against Toulon like a ball.
His start to the season
“In July, I was on cloud nine with this first selection for the French team and a first Top 14 semi-final with the club. It was an incredible time. I made the most of it but I also learned a lot during this period Unfortunately, the start of the season did not live up to our expectations And then, personally, I am a little in the dark because I do not know what my future will hold. at the end of his contract with Stade français in June next. I know it's part of the job, but it's not easy to manage. I would have liked to have a little more visibility to play with more peace of mind.
His future
“I discuss it a lot with my loved ones, my parents, my wife. At 31, I inevitably ask myself questions. I think I still have a few years ahead of me, but this championship is more and more demanding. More and more young players arrive every year, players of great quality, so I make all the necessary efforts to extend this dream. I feel good at the Stade Français, but I am not closing any doors. Well, we agree on an extension. three years, but now we have to discuss the financial aspect. I really hope to be fixed before the end of this year 2024.”
Briatte towards an extension?
With 704 minutes of playing time in the Top 14, Romain Briatte is the most used player since the start of the season by Laurent Labit, just behind Paul Gabrillagues (775 minutes). Rarely disappointing, almost never injured, he has been a faithful soldier since his arrival in 2021. His performances last season earned him a first international selection in July against Argentina. Its status has therefore changed. And in the perspective of its extension at the Stade Français, this is undoubtedly a blocking element. The player is probably waiting for a salary offer commensurate with this new status and remains attentive to the market. Two Top 14 clubs, including ASM Clermont-Auvergne, its training club, have positioned themselves. But, he says it in the interview he gave us: a first step has been taken towards an extension in the capital since the two parties have agreed on the duration of the contract. The situation should therefore settle down during this European interlude.
France
Rugby