Rugby continues to surprise with major announcements and transfers that shape the future of clubs and players. Detailed look back at the highlights of the day.
UBB: Machenaud and McDermott in the sights for the hinge
Union Bordeaux-Bègles is actively preparing for next season by exploring two major avenues for the scrum half position. Maxime Machenaud et Tate McDermott are the advanced names.
- Maxime Machenauda former player trained at UBB between 2007 and 2010, is currently in disagreement with Aviron Bayonnais over the duration of his contract. At 35, the French international (38 caps) could make a symbolic return to Bordeaux. This strategic choice would replace the announced departure of Yann Lesgourgueson the way to Biarritz.
- For his part, Tate McDermotta 26-year-old Australian scrum-half, is also attracting interest. Holder with the Wallabies (40 caps) and author of an impressive season in Super Rugby, he represents a young and offensive option. His creativity and dynamism could breathe new life into the Gironde hinge.
This double challenge reveals the ambition of the UBB to build a solid and balanced hinge to face the demands of next season.
Xavier Mignot leaves Lyon for Major League Rugby
The French international winger Xavier Mignotlacking playing time this season at Lyon ORdecided to try his luck in the United States. He joins NOLA Gold Rugbybased in New Orleans, from January.
Mignot has only played three matches since the resumption of the championship and has not scored a single try. This departure for Major League Rugby marks a new adventure for the 29-year-old player, who already appeared in the blue jersey during the tour to Argentina in 2016. At NOLA Gold, he will play under the orders of the coach Nicolas Godignonsurrounded by other French people like Kélian Galletier.
This transfer shows the growing attraction of American clubs for French talent, thus strengthening the growth of rugby across the Atlantic. (Source : Rugbyrama)
Jean-Noël Spitzer and the Rugby Club Vannes at the heart of the debates
The Rugby Club Vannes and his manager, Jean-Noël Spitzerface controversy after comments made following a defeat against Union Bordeaux-Bègles. These statements led to a disciplinary committee being summoned by the National Rugby League.
In an official press release, the club regrets these words and reiterates its commitment to respecting the refereeing body. Spitzer acknowledged a lack of restraint, but the statement emphasized that his comments never called into question the integrity of the referees. The Rugby Club Vannes insists on its involvement in the training and support of young referees, particularly in Brittany.
This incident highlights the challenges linked to the increased media coverage of professional rugby for a club on the rise. (Source: Rugby Club Vannes)
Perpignan welcomes Sama Malolo for two seasons
The talonneur samoan Sama Hololo joined the ranks of Perpignan for a period of two years. The 26-year-old, international with Samoa (13 caps, 4 tries), had an atypical career before shining in Super Rugby with the Moana Pasifika.
Originally from New Zealand and trained in Australia, Malolo has crossed several continents, playing in particular in Japan and the United States before distinguishing himself with Moana Pasifika. In Perpignan, he will take over from his compatriot Roadsidebringing his experience and versatility to the Catalan scrum.
With this new recruit, Perpignan continues to strengthen its workforce after the arrivals of Peceli Yato et Tristan Tedderaffirming its ambitions for the seasons to come. (Source : Rugbyrama)
I grew up in a family where rugby was at all times. I was at the edge of the pitch when Castres beat Pau and joined the elite, I was in the Stade Pierre Antoine facing Gary Whetton when he did his Haka to celebrate the Brennus of 1993 and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
