Nine extensions including three on a three-year contract
Regarding the extensions, the FCG received only positive responses from the players. In detail, left pillars Zach Gauthier and Eli Eglaine continue. The first until 2027 and until 2028 for the second. Hooker Lilian Rossi also signed three years with Grenoble. In the second row, the player on loan from La Rochelle Thomas Ployet has signed up with the FCG until 2027. Emblematic FCG player, Antonin Berruyer has also extended his contract for two seasons, until 2027.
At the hinge, the leaders have secured the positions of scrum half and fly half. At position 9, Barnabé Couilloud, who arrived in July 2023, continues until 2027, just like his partner Eric Escande, who is also extending his lease in Isère by two seasons. Opener Sam Davies enjoys playing in Isère and has extended his contract until 2028.
On the back lines, there were a lot of questions, particularly around Romain Fusier, who was in contact with Top 14 clubs, notably RC Toulon. The three-quarter center decided to continue with the FCG, which extends the one who entered the group of club captains this season.
Lainault and Guillaumond will also extend
In the official list, there is no trace of Thomas Lainault or Victor Guillaumond. The two players are still discussing with the leaders and everything is on track for the adventure to continue. The contract extension is not in doubt for the two elements of the FCG. Max Clément and Hugo Trouilloud, at the end of their Espoir contract, will also continue with Grenoble. Finally, there are two questions surrounding second lines Pierce Philippe and Brandon Nansen. Both have the disadvantage of not being JIFF (Player from French training).
Concerning recruitment, players Aurélien Callandret (Bayonne), who will digitally replace Geoffrey Cros and hooker Romain Ruffenach (Pau) have signed up with the FCG for next season. With these announcements, the FCG is already calmly preparing for the 2025/2026 season.
And the staff?
Regarding the FCG staff, president Patrick Goffi also wants to move quickly. Now that the “players” file is almost completed, the Varois will tackle the staff file. Defense coach Tom Palmer will leave the club at the end of the season. Lionel Ringeval will inherit the title of defense coach next season.
Concerning coaches Patrick Pezery and Nicolas Nadau, the president wishes to realign contract durations. Discussions will begin and responses are expected by the end of January at the latest.
Physical trainers Romain Guérin and Viktor Maquaire will also be surveyed, as will Rugby director Aubin Hueber, who has an option year. The president’s wish is to have two-year contract periods for everyone.
Belgium
