The year 2025 which begins and the 6 Nations which arrives could see the third line position turned upside down. Executives Ollivon, Alldritt or Jelonch see a young wave with long teeth knocking at the door.
The French Rugby team will begin its 2025 year this Wednesday. Fabien Galthié and his staff must deliver the group of 42 players who will prepare for the 6 Nations Tournament. The coach will have to juggle fragile balances within his squad, between injuries, returns and the emergence of young talents. So many subjects where the third line particularly attracts attention.
This position, often considered one of the historic strengths of the XV of France, will go through a period of transition. Charles Ollivon, unwavering member of the Blues of the Galthié era, is out after rupturing a cruciate ligament in his right knee. This prolonged absence represents a hard blow, as the Toulonnais was one of Galthié's privileged relays and had proven himself valuable last fall.
At the same time, Toulouse's Alexandre Roumat suffers from a muscle injury which should keep him away from the field for at least two weeks. These injuries reduce the options available in the short term for Galthié, but also open up the field of possibilities.
Young people are knocking at the door
Grégory Alldritt, another major figure, admitted to having gone through a complicated year in 2024, marked by performances below his usual standards. It is therefore eagerly awaited in 2025 and its performance will be scrutinized. However, his ability to question himself to regain his best level will be crucial. Another executive in difficulty, Anthony Jelonch. His return to the field is taking place very gradually and leaves some questions about his physical form. The Toulouse player, handicapped by a double rupture of the cruciate ligaments in his knees, has not yet regained all his punch in his game.
However, the depth of the French workforce in this position is reassuring. Many young players (Gazzotti, Matiu, Nouchi, Tixeront, Banos, Castro-Ferreira or Théo Ntamack) are knocking on the door of the selection or have discovered it in recent months. Some could well take advantage of the opportunities to establish themselves. Among the names considered, we find promising talents. Without also forgetting the Rochelais duo, Paul Boudehent and Oscar Jegou, who could make everyone agree.
France
Rugby
