Veteran centre Manu Tuilagi has opened the door to a sensational international return with Samoa at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, potentially setting up a dramatic confrontation against his former England teammates.
Tuilagi's Potential International Switch
The 34-year-old powerhouse, who became synonymous with England's midfield for over a decade, confirmed he hasn't ruled out representing the Pacific Island nation when rugby's global showpiece heads to Australia. Tuilagi would qualify for Samoa selection in 2027 under World Rugby's revised eligibility rules introduced four years ago, which allow players to switch nations after a three-year stand-down period.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025-26 Investec Champions Cup, Tuilagi addressed the growing speculation following Samoa's successful qualification from the Dubai tournament earlier this month. "When Samoa qualified it was all over social media," Tuilagi acknowledged, though he tempered expectations by adding: "It's still a long way away and I don't know if I'll be able to make it."
Marchant's England Return Boost
While Tuilagi contemplates an international future elsewhere, England head coach Steve Borthwick has received significant positive news with Joe Marchant's confirmed return to English rugby. The 29-year-old former Harlequins centre has signed a long-term deal with Sale Sharks starting from the 2026-27 season, immediately restoring his eligibility for international selection.
Marchant, who boasts 26 England caps, expressed enthusiasm about joining the Manchester-based club, stating: "When I spoke to Alex Sanderson he explained the direction he wants to take the club and the ambition he has. It's a club that wants to win trophies and I'd love to be a part of that."
Tuilagi's Cautious Approach
The Samoan-born centre emphasised the distinction between interest and genuine competitiveness when discussing potential World Cup participation. "It's different between being interested and being able to compete," Tuilagi explained. "It's a World Cup, not a club competition. If you want to go, you've got to make sure you go there to compete, not just for the craic."
Tuilagi's most recent England appearance came during last year's Six Nations campaign, shortly before his move from Sale to French club Bayonne effectively ended his international career with the Red Rose. Under current regulations, he would become available for Samoa selection three years after his final England cap.
Meanwhile, Sale wing Tom Roebuck revealed he suffered a broken toe bone during England's victory against New Zealand on November 15th but hopes to recover in time for the Six Nations. "I saw the specialist last Friday and he said no operation, which is good, but we are looking at 8-10 weeks out," Roebuck confirmed, with England's campaign beginning against Wales on February 7th.
