Unhappy England coach set to quit ahead of 2027 Rugby World Cup

Forwards coach Joe El-Abd reportedly holding talks over a return to France next season — further highlighting what has been a strangely high turnover of coaches during Borthwick’s tenure.

El-Abd, 45, joined England’s setup in September 2024, taking up a role under Borthwick — a former housemate from their university days — following the abrupt resignation of Felix Jones, who lasted just seven months as defence coach.

Born in Brighton, El-Abd enjoyed a long playing career as a back-row forward, most notably with Bristol, before moving into coaching in France. He built a strong reputation overseas, culminating in leading Oyonnax to the Pro D2 title in 2023, earning widespread praise for his man-management and tactical clarity.

At the time of his England appointment, El-Abd spoke of his desire for stability after a turbulent spell behind the scenes at Twickenham. That period had already seen Kevin Sinfield moved from defence into a skills and kicking role, alongside the departures of Aled Walters (head of physical performance) and Tom Tombleson (head of strength and conditioning).

Speaking to BBC Radio Five Live, El-Abd said:

However, according to French publication Midi Olympique, El-Abd has grown unhappy with the scope of his responsibilities since being placed in charge of the forwards. The report claims he held a video conference with Brive’s management following England’s unbeaten Autumn Nations Series campaign.

If El-Abd were to leave before the 2027 Rgby World Cup, it would raise further questions about the unsettled nature of Borthwick’s coaching ticket, with England cycling through a series of senior coaches in a relatively short space of time — an unusual trend for a national setup seeking long-term continuity.

Another exit would only add to the sense that Borthwick’s England are still searching for stability off the field, even as results on it remain positive.