Q: You are going to play a crucial match on Saturday in the Top 14 against Bordeaux-Bègles before moving on to the European Challenge final against Toulon on May 27.

How do you approach these matches?

A: "The end of the season is thrilling! We've been in this configuration for several weeks: we play tough matches every weekend. It's historic for the club. And then, we're better in the hunter's shoes. "We are all aware of that now. For a while now, the weeks have had a flavor of endgames. We know that we have no more room for error. These are the best weeks to live. We take advantage of it."

Q: How did you manage the announcement of the departure of your coach Pierre Mignoni this winter?

A: "It was digested quite quickly by the club and the whole group. We expected it, even if it was done in particular conditions... We, of course, want to finish well for him . But the group takes precedence. Pierre is doing everything to put it forward. The + goodbye + will be for the end of the season."

Q: Your coach played in the same position as you and launched you into the professional world.

Do you have a special relationship?

they wanted to work with him.

With Pierre, we are never caught off guard.

He is honest and upright.

It's a virtue in our community."

Q: On a personal level, you are the top scorer in the Top 14. Is that a goal?

The French coach of Bordeaux-Bègles, Christophe Urios, before the Top 14 match against Montpellier Hérault Rugby in Montpellier, April 24, 2022 Pascal GUYOT AFP / Archives

A: "I didn't expect it. It's rewarding. I recognize that I like to cross, to score tries. Staying the best scorer is in a corner of my head. It would highlight the good work made by the group this season, and the efforts made after a difficult last season. It may be good, with Léo (Berdeu, the opening half of LOU, editor's note), to finish as the best scorer and best director in the championship. titles would remain anecdotal. We would prefer to qualify! It won't have much value if we're not in the Top 6."

Q: You were part of the France group during the Six Nations Tournament.

It is said that you celebrated the Grand Slam by jumping in the Seine.

Info or intox?

A: "Yes, it's true. I went to taste the water of the Seine... Fortunately, I came out without any skin problem or anything. It was after the victory against England. Even if I didn't have the opportunity to play, I participated in the Tournament with the group. I enjoyed it as much as them."

Q: The World Cup is coming.

Is participating in it in the back of your mind?

French international Baptiste Couilloud (right) during the test match against Australia in Brisbane, July 17, 2021 Patrick HAMILTON AFP / Archives

A: "Obviously. All French players work with this idea in mind. It's normal. But I don't think much about it at the moment. We are all focused on the club. The best way to have an opportunity in Blue is to have results collectively, in the Challenge Cup and in the Top 14."

© 2022 AFP