Shaun Edwards makes his feeling clear on England return

Reports suggest Edwards, who joined Les Bleus from Wales in 2020, is in talks with the French Rugby Federation over an early departure despite being contracted until 2028. He will not be involved in France’s Nations Championship campaign next month.

Galthié has moved quickly to fill the vacancy, bringing back Gérald Bastide on an interim basis. Bastide previously served as France’s defence coach between 2015 and 2017 under former head coach Guy Novès.

Edwards has played a key role in France’s rise back to the top of international rugby. During his six-year spell, Les Bleus won three Six Nations titles, including this year’s championship. The former Wales defence coach has now been part of seven Six Nations-winning campaigns, having also claimed four titles and three Grand Slams under Warren Gatland.

Despite that success, reports from France suggest Edwards has fallen out of favour with Galthié, who is believed to have been considering changes for several months.

France’s defensive performances came under scrutiny during this year’s Six Nations, conceding 50 points against Scotland and 46 in their title-clinching victory over England.

The shake-up also sees kicking coach Vlok Cilliers depart, with Toulon’s Maxime Petitjean taking over on an interim basis.

Edwards’ availability is likely to spark speculation over a return to England. While there is no obvious vacancy in Steve Borthwick’s coaching team, Edwards has previously said he would be open to coaching his home nation in the future.

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