Lyon formalizes three departures

The LOU Rugby season has come to an end since the play-off match lost against Bordeaux-Bègles. It’s time for the club to look at what’s next, but also to say goodbye to the departing players. And that is why the club formalized several departures, including that of Lima Sopoaga.

Disappointed hopes

Arrived in 2021 in the Rhône, the New Zealand international was eagerly awaited. But his recruitment will ultimately have been a disappointment since he will have been only a double for Léo Berdeu, a status unworthy of his status as All Black. Berdeu’s serious injury allowed him to come back a little on the front of the stage, but it was not enough.

Lima Sopoaga therefore leaves Lyon, at the same time as Tavite Veredamu and Temo Mayanavanua, whose departures have also been formalized.

𝑇ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝐿𝑖𝑚𝑎 ❤️🖤
An express integration facilitated by your good humor and your openness to others. During these two seasons, your leadership and your talent will have marked your time in the Rouge et Noir jersey. We wish you the best for the future. pic.twitter.com/IIU0q1Wn8O

— LOU Rugby (@LeLOURugby) June 7, 2023

𝑀𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑖 𝑇𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑒 ❤️🖤
Arrived in 2021, you have established yourself as one of the spearheads of the Lyon attack. You will have been a great craftsman of the good season of the LOU. We thank you for your kindness and your communicative smile on a daily basis. Good luck next. pic.twitter.com/6ZiEB4z9Y9

— LOU Rugby (@LeLOURugby) June 7, 2023

𝑉𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑘𝑎 𝑇𝑒𝑚𝑜 ❤️🖤
Arrived three years ago from New Zealand, you came to live your first European experience at LOU. Of a discreet nature, you were not on the ground. A solid warrior at the service of the collective. Best wishes. pic.twitter.com/C29vNPr1SH

— LOU Rugby (@LeLOURugby) June 7, 2023