After more than ten years of good and loyal service, Fritz Lee has confirmed that he will no longer wear the yellow and blue tunic next season. The one who embodied the soul of the Auvergne pack made his departure official as La Montagne reports: “I spoke with Christophe (Urios). I will not continue with ASM next season. I’m OK with that. The club has its objectives, it must anticipate the future. We had a good chat. That’s how it is.“
A page turns in Clermont
Arriving in Auvergne in 2013, Fritz Lee left his mark on the recent history of the ASM. A true spearhead in the third row, the Samoan has established himself as one of the best number 8s in the Top 14.
His impact in the game, his power and his consistency have made him an indispensable frame. But, at 36, the native of Moto’otua sees his Clermont adventure come to an end, without the optional year of his contract being activated.
The departure of Fritz Lee illustrates the desire for renewal carried by Christophe Urios. The club is already preparing for the future with strategic extensions, like that of Marcos Kremer for several seasons.
At the same time, Anthony Belleau, who arrived in 2022, will not be retained at the end of this season either, while other elements are still uncertain.
Fritz Lee’s legacy
If ASM turns a page, the one written by Fritz Lee will remain engraved in the history of the club. Champion of France in 2017, the Samoan has been a respected leader on and off the field. His departure opens a new era for Clermontwho will have to find a successor capable of filling this void.
According to Midi Olympique, Clermont would have set its sights on Pio Muarua (28 years old). The current Grenoble player would be on the verge of signing up with ASM for next season. A loss for the FCG as the 3rd line brings power to the Isère attack. But it seemed complicated for the Pro D2 team to retain such talent. He will not be the first Grenoblois to join Clermont.
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