As the global rugby landscape shifts, the focus is increasingly on the figures who will lead the sport’s elite teams into a new chapter.
Key coaching appointments have the potential to reshape national trajectories, with a mix of master tacticians and iconic former players in the frame.
In South Africa, one of the most intriguing storylines is unfolding, as a two-time World Cup-winning Springbok is tipped as a possible successor to Rassie Erasmus.
Here are our selections for the next head coach of each major rugby nation.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
Italy – Eddie Jones
Eddie Jones represents a high-risk, high-reward option for Italy’s future. Known for transforming teams under pressure, he has an established record of international success, including guiding England to the 2019 World Cup final.
Jones combines tactical intelligence, mental toughness, and adaptability. He tailors his approach to the strengths of his players, ensuring they perform at maximum capacity in high-stakes situations.
While Gonzalo Quesada currently leads Italy effectively, Jones would bring authority, experience, and strategic insight capable of accelerating their progress.
For Italy, Jones could be a transformative figure, delivering immediate results while building a sustainable platform for long-term competitiveness.
England – Shaun Edwards
One of the best coaches in the world is English, and the RFU should be targeting him as a replacement for Steve Borthwick.
Shaun Edwards’ reputation as a tactician and motivator is unparalleled, and his defensive acumen could immediately strengthen England’s set-up.
Edwards’ playing career in rugby league was legendary. He won eight championships and nine Challenge Cups with Wigan Warriors and played in a record eleven finals.
Transitioning to rugby union, Edwards coached London Wasps from 2005 to 2011, winning multiple Premiership titles and European trophies. He later became Wales’ defence coach, contributing to three Grand Slams and four Six Nations victories.
More recently, he guided France to three Six Nations titles as defence coach. His track record of adapting to new challenges, coupled with his tactical genius, positions him as a prime candidate to lead England forward.
