Bristol Bears sign experienced Argentina international as injury cover

Thursday, 09 October 2025 at 14:49

byTom Sansom

Bristol Bears have brought in experienced Argentina international Matías Moroni on a short-term 'medical joker' deal, to bolster their backline amid a string of injuries. The 93-capped Puma, capable of playing both centre and wing, joins Pat Lam’s side immediately, subject to a medical.

Moroni has a decorated career in European rugby. The Argentine was part of the Leicester Tigers squad that won the Gallagher Premiership in 2022 and has also played for Newcastle Falcons and French side Brive. This will be his fourth European club and his third in the English Premiership.

Director of Rugby Pat Lam commented: “With the high volume of injuries to our senior backs, we’re pleased to be able to bring in a player of Matías’ experience and quality to boost our backline options for the next few weeks.

"He is a proven international and a Gallagher PREM winner, who will provide excellent cover following the injuries to AJ MacGinty, Gabriel Ibitoye, James Williams, Noah Heward, Rich Lane, Louis Rees-Zammit – and Academy centres Joe Jenkins and Toby Baker.”

The signing strengthens Bristol’s contingent of Pumas, joining fullback Benjamín Elizalde, second-row Pedro Rubiolo, and back-rowers Santiago and Benjamín Grondona.

Moroni made his international debut for Argentina against Scotland in 2014 and has since represented the Pumas in three Rugby World Cups. He scored in the 2015 quarter-final victory over Ireland and against Namibia the same year, as well as in 2019 against England.

At the 2023 Rugby World Cup, he played a key role as Argentina reached the semi-finals, notably with a try-saving tackle against Wales. Versatility has defined his career. In 2024, Moroni started for Argentina in three positions: outside centre, inside centre, and wing, including an appearance on the right wing during Argentina’s historic Rugby Championship win over the All Blacks in Wellington.

His natural position remains outside centre, and with 92 caps, he is now the most-capped centre or outside back in Pumas history, surpassing former coach Felipe Contepomi (87 caps). At 34, Moroni was apart of the inaugural Jaguares Super Rugby squad, and continues to bring experience, leadership, and versatility to a Bristol backline during a challenging period in the West Country.