Widely regarded as one of England’s most crucial players over the past decade, Manu Tuilagi looks set to leave English shores at the end of next season.
Now thirty-one-years-old the youngest of the famed Tuilagi brothers has seen much of his career lost to injuries.
When fit Tuilagi is up there with the best players in the world, unfortunately for England his availability has been a real issue.
Now targeting the 2023 World Cup, all indications are that Tuilagi will depart English rugby at the conclusion of the tournament.
In search of a large payday, he would appear to have plenty of suitors in both France and Japan.
Both countries have their positives and negatives. In France the opportunity to play at the highest level in Top14 and Champions Cup would be a major lure.
Whilst in Japan the shorter season, lower physicality and change of cultures might just be what he requires in the twilight of his career.
Although he will be thirty-two at next year’s World Cup, his loss will be felt immensely by both Sale and England.
As the following video shows, at his peak Tuilagi was nearly impossible to contain.
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