Top 14. Private of Stade de France, Jalibert on mission to La Rabine: the probable compo of the UBB

Matthieu Jalibert, absent from the France group to face Argentina on Friday, does not remain on the sidelines however. The Bordeaux opener should put on the UBB jersey this Saturday, during the trip to Vannes for the resumption of the Top 14.

Return home

Placed on the bench against Japan, then relegated to the reserves against the All Blacks, Jalibert had asked to leave the Blues gathering to return to Bordeaux. A request accepted by Fabien Galthié, who took the opportunity to reiterate his expectations at a press conference: “We need determination, strong players.” A message that some interpreted as a provocation towards the UBB opener, accused of not meeting the mental demands of the French staff.

XV of France. Alldritt, Jalibert, sure of his choices, Galthié assures that “there is no controversy”

This week, however, the coach added water to his wine: “There is no controversy around Matthieu Jalibert. He needed to regenerate.” A regeneration more mental than physical, since the player seems ready to lead the Gironde attack this weekend.

The choice of the heart in Vannes

In Bordeaux, Jalibert found a setting where he excelled. Leader of the attack, his role is clear, his influence immense. A contrast with his status in Blue, where, despite his talent, he struggles to establish himself in the minds of the staff. “He is making a huge start to the season with Bordeaux, and he may feel like an injustice,” believes Jean-Baptiste Lafond for Eurosport. “I put myself in his place: he plays well every weekend and yet he remains in the shadows.”

Bounce back, quickly

This period away from the Blues could nevertheless prove beneficial. Jalibert now has two months to regain confidence and pull the UBB upwards. Currently 2nd in the Top 14, Bordeaux is counting on its opener to continue this dynamic.

XV of France. ''A divorce between Jalibert and Galthié'', has the Bordeaux player lost the confidence of the coach?

Far from a disavowal, Galthié even made a point of emphasizing that the Marcoussis door remained open: “Matthieu will return to the French team, if he wishes.” The message got through.

For now, let's move on to the field. And on Saturday, in Vannes, Matthieu Jalibert will be back where he shines the most: on the pitch, with the number 10 on his back.