Matías Alemanno Marks 100th Game as Argentine Pumas Excel in European Rugby

Matías Alemanno has concluded his six-and-a-half-season tenure with Gloucester after playing his 100th match, ending in a victory over Newcastle Red Bulls. This transition occurs as the English Premiership confirms its semifinalists—Northampton Saints, Bath, Leicester Tigers, and Saracens—while the French Top 14 and PRO D2 reach their competitive peaks.

Why Matías Alemanno’s Departure from Gloucester Matters

Alemanno joined the “Cherry and White” in 2020 following the dissolution of the Jaguares. He leaves as a highly respected figure, with coach George Skivington describing him as an “authentic warrior” who remained positive and hardworking throughout the year.

The 34-year-old finished his final individual campaign with 23 appearances across all competitions. His departure marks a shift toward French rugby, bringing a wealth of experience to a new league.

International implications are also significant. Alemanno currently holds 99 caps with the Pumas and could reach the century mark during the July window. Because Pedro Rubiolo is sidelined with an injury, Alemanno may return to the national team’s radar.

If he reaches 100 caps, he would become only the fifth Puma to do so, joining Agustín Creevy, Nicolás Sanchez, Pablo Matera, and Julián Montoya.

Did You Know? Matías Alemanno is currently just one cap away from joining an elite group of only four other Argentine players to reach 100 international appearances for the Pumas.

What is the Current State of the English Premiership?

The race for the title has narrowed to four teams: Northampton Saints, Bath, Leicester Tigers, and Saracens. Gloucester finished their season with a dominant 54-21 win over Newcastle Red Bulls, though they remained outside the semifinal contention.

The upcoming schedule features a classic clash between Northampton Saints and Joaquín Moro’s Leicester Tigers this Friday. On Saturday, Bath, featuring Santiago Carreras at number 10, will face the Exeter Chiefs.

Carreras contributed four points with his boot in a tight victory against Leicester. Other notable performances in the final round included Simón Benítez Cruz scoring a try for Gloucester, and minutes played by Pedro Delgado, Boris Wenger, and Guido Petti during Harlequins’ victory over Northampton.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the potential return of Matías Alemanno to the Pumas’ radar highlights the strategic volatility of international selections; when a mainstay like Pedro Rubiolo is injured, veteran reliability often outweighs newer prospects.

How Did the French Top 14 and PRO D2 Conclude?

The Top 14 saw a shocking result as European double-champion Bordeaux Begles failed to qualify for the play-offs. They suffered a 34-31 defeat against Clermont, a disappointing end for a star-studded roster.

Matias Alemanno Player Highlights

Marcos Kremer stood out for Clermont, recording 21 tackles. Meanwhile, Bautista Delguy left the field with an ankle injury and is awaiting a medical diagnosis.

Toulouse and Montpellier have both secured direct spots in the semifinals. Toulouse, featuring Santiago Chocobares and Efraín Elías, is considered the favorite to win the Bouclier de Brennus, despite the season-long absence of Juan Cruz Mallía due to a knee injury.

Quarterfinal matchups are set: La Rochelle, with Joel Sclavi starting, will visit Stade Francais. Racing 92 will face the Pau side of Julián Montoya and Facundo Isa.

Vannes Claims PRO D2 Title

Vannes has once again been crowned PRO D2 champion, securing promotion to the Top 14. They defeated Provence Rugby 18-14 in a tense final where Federico Wegrzyn featured for the opposing side.

Captain Francisco Gorrissen and starter Santiago Medrano were key figures in a dominant season. Vannes accumulated 116 points through 24 victories in 30 matches.

Bautista Pedemonte also contributed to the squad’s success. The club now aims to establish itself in the top flight following the promotion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which teams qualified for the English Premiership semifinals?

The qualifying teams are Northampton Saints, Bath, Leicester Tigers, and Saracens.

What happened to Bordeaux Begles in the Top 14?

Despite being a two-time European champion, Bordeaux Begles failed to qualify for the play-offs after losing 34-31 to Clermont.

How many wins did Vannes achieve in the PRO D2 season?

Vannes recorded 24 victories in 30 matches, totaling 116 points to win the championship.

Which of these rugby transitions—Alemanno’s move to France or Vannes’ promotion—do you think will have the biggest impact on the coming season?