This season in PREM Rugby has delivered drama, intensity, and standout performances, but not every signing has paid off. Big reputations and high expectations have, in some cases, led to disappointment.
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Whether due to injuries, poor form, or difficulty adapting, several high-profile arrivals have failed to make the expected impact. Here, we examine five of the worst transfers and what went wrong this campaign.
5 Liam Williams
While Liam Williams has enjoyed an outstanding career, his move to Newcastle Red Bulls simply didn’t work out. He managed just three appearances after joining early in the season before calling time on his career.
In March, following a persistent knee injury that troubled him during his short stint at the club, Williams announced his retirement from professional rugby.
It’s hard to place blame on the player, but ultimately the signing proved ineffective and, in hindsight, largely unnecessary.
4 Marius Louw
In March 2025, it was confirmed that Marius Louw would join Sale Sharks on a two-year deal starting from the 2025-26 season. However, his impact so far has been underwhelming.
Despite being a powerful and experienced centre, having spent his entire career in South Africa with the Sharks before captaining the Lions, Louw has yet to truly deliver for Sale.
While he hasn’t been poor, he also hasn’t met expectations, and it is possible that adapting to life and rugby in the UK has played a role in his slow start.
