Every Newcastle Red Bulls departure ahead of next season

There has been a significant influx of players since Red Bulls’ investment last year, and the upcoming summer will mark Newcastle’s first pre-season fully under their new ownership.

Nineteen players have already agreed deals to join the club this summer, combining proven internationals with solid PREM Rugby talent to strengthen depth.

The club currently sits at the bottom of the table, with just one win so far this season.

Despite the large number of incoming players, departures have been relatively limited so far. As noted, the Hancock brothers will leave to join Doncaster Knights.

During the season, two players retired. Hame Faiva stepped away from professional rugby in March at the age of 31 due to injury. The former Italy international, who earned 10 caps and previously played for Worcester Warriors and Bath, had joined Newcastle last summer.

Former Wales and British and Irish Lions fullback Liam Williams also announced his retirement in March.

The 93-cap international had already retired from international rugby in January and has now ended his club career, citing an ongoing knee injury.

One of last summer’s key signings, Amanaki Mafi, is expected to leave when his one-year deal expires this summer. The same applies to Stefan Coetzee and Sam Waugh.

Harrison Obatoyinbo, who also signed a one-year deal, will remain at the club after agreeing a contract extension confirmed today.

Finally, fly-half Ben Healy is currently on loan at Newcastle and will not stay beyond that spell. The Irish player is set to join Ronan O’Gara’s La Rochelle side from his parent club Edinburgh this summer.