Manu Tuilagi wants to swap nations and could face England at next World Cup
11/16/2024 02:26 AM
Manu Tuilagi’s 60th cap, earned during England's Six Nations defeat to France in March, wrapped up a 13-year stint with the Red Rose.
Following his move to Bayonne in the Top 14, Tuilagi's international journey ended under the RFU’s strict rules: Premiership players only for England selection.
"You Don't Always Get What You Want"
Speaking to BBC North West Tonight, Tuilagi reflected, "It's a tough one because you still want to play [for England], but I've learned that what you want, you don't always get. I think I'll miss it, but now I'll be a fan.” He added, "The last two games of the Six Nations, Ireland then going to France, taking it right to the wire—it's exciting. As a fan, I am so excited."
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Heart in England, Home in Samoa
In an exclusive with The Daily Telegraph, Tuilagi admitted, "England is very special to me, of course, but my heart and home is still Samoa." He even left the door open for a future in the blue jersey, declaring, "I'd love to pull on the blue jersey one day."
A Tuilagi Family Tradition
Named after the Samoan national team, Manu is the anomaly among his brothers. Anitelea, Alesana, Henry, and Freddie all represented Samoa despite their stints in European rugby leagues. Manu, however, has been the face of English rugby.
Time Ticking for a World Cup Comeback
Should Tuilagi make the switch, he'd be eligible for Samoa at the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The clock, though, is ticking—Manu will be 35 years old. The question remains: Will he follow in his brothers’ footsteps?
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Manu Tuilagi's 150kg Nephew is Wanted by THREE Premiership Clubs!
Posolo Tuilagi might be sidelined for the rest of the season with a brutal double leg break, but that hasn't stopped clubs across Europe from eyeing up the 20-year-old powerhouse.
Currently contracted to Perpignan, who are desperate to keep hold of him, the French international is the talk of the town – and it's no wonder.
Top 14 or Premiership? Both Want Him
The big man, who's already earned five caps for France this year, is attracting serious interest from the likes of Toulon and Toulouse in the Top 14, while Premiership clubs, including Pat Lam's Bristol Bears, are also keen to bring him over to England.
With his size and power, Posolo could be a perfect fit for any team looking to strengthen their forward pack.
The Injury That Shook Us All
Back in September, Posolo's promising season came to a crushing halt when he was stretchered off the pitch after just 17 minutes in Perpignan's 33-3 victory over Clermont.
The horrific tibia-fibula fracture to his left leg (aka his shin) left the rugby world stunned.
But Posolo's recovery seems to be going well – he even shared an Instagram Story from his hospital bed, reassuring fans: "The operation went well thank you all for your messages and support."
How Long Will He Be Out?
While there's no confirmed timeline for his return, the 149kg wrecking ball will likely face a long spell on the sidelines. Still, that hasn't dampened the excitement around his future – and his next move.
With a legacy at Welford Road thanks to his father, Henry Tuilagi's legendary status at Leicester, don't be surprised if the Tigers show interest too. RUCK sources also suggest Saracens would be interested if they can find a place for powerhouse within the salary cap.
Wherever Posolo ends up, we're all hoping to see him ba
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