Manu Tuilagi has hinted he could represent Samoa at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, as he qualifies for the country of his birth in March and could play for them in Australia after standing down from England for three years.
After completing the required stand-down period following his final England appearance, the now 35-year-old has not ruled out pulling on the Samoan jersey next year, having previously feared his World Cup career was over.
Speaking to The Times, Tuilagi was asked whether he would follow in the footsteps of his brothers Henry, Freddie, Alesana and Anitelea, all of whom represented Samoa.
“I’m the only one that played for England, but yeah, that would be something, eh?” he said.
“I suppose so. We’ll see what happens. I might see all the Bayonne boys there, because we’ve got some talented guys here and play France in the pool. So yeah, maybe.”
It would be a remarkable turn for a career repeatedly interrupted by injuries, with Tuilagi having endured his fair share of setbacks during his time in an England shirt.
The centre, who won 60 caps and scored 100 points for England, has also featured at three World Cups, despite previously suggesting that his international tournament days were behind him.
Tuilagi also spoke about the physical and mental demands of remaining at the top level, having completed his 20th pre-season with Top 14 side Bayonne.
For Samoa, adding a player with Tuilagi’s international experience would be a significant boost as they prepare for the 2027 tournament, where they are set to face France, Japan and the USA in the pool stages.
A fourth World Cup would be an extraordinary achievement for Tuilagi. But he isn’t the only England international who could switch allegiances come next year’s World Cup down under.
Five England players who could switch nations for the 2027 World Cup
Mako Vunipola, Tonga
The 88-cap England loosehead qualifies for Tonga through his family heritage. A switch would give the Pacific Islanders a hugely experienced front-row forward with extensive international experience.
Billy Vunipola, Tonga
Like his brother Mako, Billy is eligible to represent Tonga through his family heritage. The former England No. 8 would bring significant experience, physicality and ball-carrying power to the side.
Alex Lozowski, Italy
The Saracens back qualifies for Italy through his Italian ancestry. The versatile back has won 17 caps for England and could still make the switch to the Azzurri.
Joe Cokanasiga, Fiji
Born in Fiji before moving to England as a child, the powerful wing has earned 16 England caps. He would be eligible to represent the Flying Fijians if selected.
Nathan Hughes, Fiji
Hughes won 22 England caps after qualifying through residency, but the former No. 8 was born in Fiji and could now potentially represent his country of birth.
