Breaking: Connacht confirms departure of established winger Santiago Cordero and three more players 🚨
Irish pro rugby club Connacht has just announced that veteran Argentine winger Santiago Cordero will not be renewing his contract and will leave Gallagher Premiership club at the end of the season. Cordero, who has played 50 international Tests for Argentina, joined Connacht in 2023 after recovering from a serious knee injury and has scored two tries in 20 appearances this season. The 31-year-old has previously played for Jaguares, Exeter Chiefs, and Bordeaux. Alongside Cordero, Connacht has confirmed that Adam McBurney and John Porch have also departed, with McBurney joining Romanian club CS Dinamo Bucure?ti and Porch moving to Vannes in France’s Pro D2. Piers O’Connor and Conor Oliver have also been confirmed to be leaving the club after making significant contributions, with O’Connor scoring three tries in 17 games and Oliver making 95 appearances and scoring 10 tries since joining from Munster in 2020. Connacht has thanked the players for their contributions and fans will have a chance to show their appreciation during Saturday’s game against Edinburgh.
Breaking: Cordero & Co. Bid Farewell to Connacht; Gilbert Set to Replace Wilkins
Connacht’s Exodus Continues; Gilbert’s Arrival Paves Way for New Era
Connacht Rugby Wave Goodbye to Key Players
Connacht Rugby has confirmed that a trio of players, including Santiago Cordero, will not be renewing their contracts at the end of the season. The Argentine winger, who has won 50 Test caps for his country, has made a notable 21 appearances for the club since recovering from a serious knee injury during pre-season. Despite scoring just two tries in 20 appearances this season, Cordero’s departure marks a significant loss for the province.
Cordero’s Replacement Already on the Cards
Connacht, still without a head coach for next season after Pete Wilkins’ departure, have already signed his replacement – versatile Highlanders back and former All Blacks hopeful Sam Gilbert. Gilbert, 27, is set to make a significant impact with his pace, agility, and proven playmaking abilities. His arrival is expected to signal a new dawn for the province.
Former International Oliver Among Departing Stars
Connacht’s exit door isn’t limited to Cordero. Openside flanker Conor Oliver, who joined from rivals Munster in 2020 and has made 95 appearances, scoring 10 tries, is also on the move. Oliver’s departure is another blow to Connacht, given his crucial role in the team’s recent campaigns.
Connacht’s United Rugby Championship Standing
As the United Rugby Championship enters its final stages, Connacht finds themselves in 14th position, with just five wins from 16 games. Leinster maintains their lead with 14 wins, closely followed by Glasgow Warriors and Bulls with 11 and 12 wins respectively.
Did you know?
The United Rugby Championship, previously known as Pro14, has been won by Leinster a record 10 times since its inception. Can anyone dislodge them this season?
Connacht’s Warm Farewell to Departing Legends
Connacht Rugby has thanked all the outgoing players for their contributions, assuring them a warm welcome back to the Dexcom Stadium. After Saturday’s game against Edinburgh, fans will have the opportunity to pay their respects to the departing stars.
Pro Tip
Stay tuned for more developments as Connacht gears up for a fresh start under new leadership and a revamped squad.
Q: Who has replaced Pete Wilkins as Connacht’s head coach?
A: Sam Gilbert, a versatile back from the Highlanders and a former All Blacks hopeful.
Q: How many Test caps has Santiago Cordero won for Argentina?
A: Cordero has won 50 Test caps for his country.
Stay Tuned for More Exciting Developments in Connacht Rugby
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