Recalled for the first time in the French team since the quarter-final of the 2019 World Cup, lost against Wales (19-20), pillar Rabah Slimani (57 caps), who today wears the colors of Leinster, has reserved for Midi Olympique his first words before finding Marcoussis. They exude joy and maturity, mixed with a touch of emotion.
How did you experience your recall to the French team more than five years after your last selection?
To be transparent, I can't say I wasn't thinking about it. But I didn't believe it anymore. So it’s a real surprise. I was often asked the question if I still hoped to be selected one day and I replied that the train had left without me, that the story was over. Since I was no longer selected, many players have been called up and have been very good. A new generation has emerged, started another story. And, logically, I thought it was no longer mine. Now, I never gave up on anything. I still had a little flame deep inside me.
Have you already set a goal for yourself?
No more, no less than before. When I enter a Rugby field, it is to win. And as long as I play, I want to give the best of myself. I know I'm not 25 anymore, but if I can bring my experience to the table, that's something I enjoy. This summons, for me, is just a bonus. If I am trusted to play or be on a score sheet, so much the better. If I don't play, I will be the first supporter of the XV of France.
How are you different from the time of your last selections?
I'm already almost six years older (laughs). It's not necessarily negative because today I have a different approach to training, matches and challenges. I know what the France team represents. Having been absent for five years allowed me to have another vision. When I was younger, I put a lot of pressure on myself. Today, I go there without stress. I know what I have to do. The staff was very clear about what they expected of me. And then, I feel much freer in my head.
That's to say ?
I put a lot less pressure on myself. Rugby is my job, but it remains a game, a passion. I'm lucky enough to make a living from it and that's how I manage to be positive.
How did your first six months at Leinster allow you to return to the French team?
When Leinster came for me, I felt a strong sense of confidence. Recognition of my work. It did me a lot of good. It wasn't me who asked to go to one of the biggest teams in Europe, it was the managers who wanted to recruit me. They told me: “We want you, we need you and we know why we are coming to get you. » These words still resonate in my head. It did me a lot of good. And I'm going to tell you a secret: since I've been in Dublin, no one has ever spoken to me about my age.
-Oh yes ?
Never. This is not a subject here. Sometimes, in France, I had the feeling of being finished. By hearing: “He’s 35 years old, he’s no longer useful,” you end up believing it.
How do you explain that?
In the Anglo-Saxon world, an elderly player is an experienced player. Until how old did Dan Cole play for England? 35 or 36 years old (Editor's note: he participated in the 2024 6 Nations Tournament at almost 36 years old)? Cian Healy is still selected for the Ireland team and he is 37 years old. It doesn't shock anyone. Here, the player is considered for his performance. Point bar.
Has the fact of evolving in a system where a large place is given to preparation, regeneration or even rest been as beneficial?
I am convinced of it. Everything is planned here. Everyone knows what their deadlines are, what match they are expected to play. The programs are adapted accordingly. I did more weight training when I arrived because I had more time. I even lost a few kilos (laughs). During the holidays, I had some time off, also during the fall tour. I have never enjoyed my family more than since I was at Leinster. Obviously, this affects performance. My mental load is less heavy here. I feel like I'm experiencing a second youth.
How was your selection at Leinster received?
It was incredible! I had the impression that they were even happier than me. Already for me, it was exceptional. But then them… Several of them took me in their arms to cuddle me, including Furlong. It was great. They didn't even bother me about the fact that we could possibly meet on March 8 (Editor's note: Ireland – France date). They were just happy for me. So does manager Leo Cullen. It actually reassured me.
For what ?
In fact, I was embarrassed towards them because they had also signed me to act as interim during international periods. Logically, I haven't been selected since 2019. And then, bam, I'm called back. But Leo Cullen was great with me. He told me: “Don’t worry, we’ll find solutions.” Enjoy it, enjoy it. » I really enjoyed it. And then, I also felt that it was recognition of their work. If I come back to Marcoussis, it is also thanks to Leinster.
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