Manu Tuilagi to Leave Sale Sharks for French Club Bayonne
England center Manu Tuilagi, a key figure in the national team for over a decade, is set to leave Sale Sharks at the end of the season to join French Top 14 club Bayonne. This move effectively ends his international career, as players based overseas are not eligible for England selection.
Tuilagi, 32, made his England debut in 2011 and has since earned 60 caps, scoring 20 tries. His physical approach and powerhouse style of play have made him a fan favorite, with memorable performances including a standout match against New Zealand in 2012.
Despite his success on the field, Tuilagi has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. However, he has still managed to win the Six Nations with England in 2016 and 2020, as well as reaching the World Cup final in 2019.
At club level, Tuilagi was twice a Premiership winner with Leicester Tigers before joining Sale Sharks in 2020. His departure from Sale comes as Fijian captain Waisea Nayacalevu joins the team, leading to Tuilagi’s move to France.
Tuilagi’s time in England has left a lasting impact on the national team, with his departure marking the end of an era for English rugby. His physicality and presence on the field will be missed, but his legacy will endure in the memories of fans and teammates alike.
Overall, Manu Tuilagi’s decision to leave Sale Sharks for Bayonne represents a significant shift in the rugby landscape, as another English player heads to France to continue their career. This move underscores the growing trend of top players seeking opportunities abroad, while also highlighting the impact of injuries on even the most talented athletes.