Manu Tuilagi weighs Samoa return for 2027 Rugby World Cup

Manu Tuilagi is weighing a possible return to international rugby with Samoa for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The veteran centre could rejoin his birthplace’s team under a birth-right eligibility rule now that he plays in France.

Eligibility and timing

Born in Samoa and raised in the United Kingdom, Tuilagi earned 60 England caps before moving to Bayonne in France, which affected his England eligibility in 2024. World Rugby’s birth-right eligibility rule could let him switch to Samoa in March 2027, three years after his last England appearance.

Samoa earned the final place at the 2027 World Cup in Australia by beating Belgium in a playoff match earlier this month.

Asked on Rugby Union Weekly whether a return would be possible, the 34-year-old said the decision would depend on whether he can still compete at the highest level.

“It’s the World Cup—we’d go to win and to give your best, not just to say I’ll play another tournament,” he said. “I’ll be 36 then, so I don’t know. We’ll see.”

Manu’s brothers have all worn Samoa’s shirt—Andy, Alesana, Henry, Sanele Vavae and Freddie—creating a strong family connection to the team. One of Tuilagi’s England appearances against Samoa came in a tight 18-17 pool-stage victory at the 2023 World Cup.

Five of his brothers have represented Samoa, which adds to the intrigue around Manu’s possible switch.

Bayonne form and life in France

In his first season with Bayonne, Tuilagi played 20 league matches as the club reached the Top 14 playoff semi-finals. That spell helped him regain match sharpness after tougher periods in England.

Though he is currently sidelined with a hand injury, he believes the move to France has helped his longevity. “The sunshine and a different daily rhythm help the body recover,” he joked, noting that training in France is still intense but different in style from English sessions. “The pace is different, with long runs and less constant contact.”

Bayonne’s Stade Jean Dauger is renowned for its electric matchday atmosphere. The club set a season attendance record last year, highlighting the passion that accompanies rugby in the city.

Tuilagi heads back to England for Bayonne’s Champions Cup schedule, with trips to Harlequins on 14 December and Leicester on 10 January, sandwiched by home clashes against the Stormers and Leinster.

Expert perspective

Expert comment: A rugby analyst notes that Tuilagi’s potential return could reshape Samoa’s selection plans and test the practical application of the birth-right rule. It would also bring a wealth of experience to Samoa ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Summary

Manu Tuilagi’s international future remains open as he evaluates a possible Samoa switch for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. His eligibility hinges on World Rugby rules and his playing form at Bayonne. If a comeback occurs, it would add a seasoned leader to Samoa’s squad and influence the team’s World Cup plans.

Key takeaway: Manu Tuilagi may become eligible to play for Samoa again in 2027 under the birth-right rule, potentially adding a veteran presence to Samoa’s World Cup campaign. Source: BBC Sport