Owen Farrell could be set for a shock return to the Premiership — with Leicester Tigers and Saracens both keen on landing the former England captain.
Farrell only joined Racing 92 last summer, but his time in Paris has been marred by injuries, limited game time, and growing frustrations. Now, reports in France claim the fly-half wants out — and soon.
French sports newspaper adds:
L’Équipe pulled no punches in their latest piece, writing:
“A strange plot is taking shape around Plessis-Robinson, Racing’s training ground. According to our information, England international fly-half Owen Farrell, who arrived in France last summer, has reportedly expressed a wish not to complete his contract with the Parisian club.”
The 32-year-old is currently sidelined with a concussion — and, according to the report, has lost the appetite for the Top 14 grind. Instead, he’s keen on a return to Saracens in a dual role, helping guide the next generation while still lacing up his boots.
L’Équipe
“Farrell would like to play less and, above all, start to move into a player-coach role at Saracens, the club of his life, with whom he has won three Champions Cups.”
But Racing won’t let him go quietly. Farrell is still under contract, and any early exit will come at a price.
“If Owen Farrell does indeed consider leaving the Top 14, he will likely have to comply with Racing’s financial terms, which will never agree to compromise without decent compensation.”
It’s a tough pill to swallow for Racing president Jacky Lorenzetti, who has long admired elite fly-halves. Farrell was meant to be the next big thing — but instead, he's become a cautionary tale.
“Farrell’s arrival is, if the story ends there, a disappointment, a flop even, somewhat reminiscent of Johnny Sexton’s time in Hauts-de-Seine. In any case, Farrell hasn’t made us forget Dan Carter, Johan Goosen, Pat Lambie, or Finn Russell.”
Farrell’s time in France has been plagued by setbacks.
“He wanted to play a lot and even too much right away while he was dragging a hamstring injury; he ended up being forced to have an operation. He played too much again during his return to training and got injured again.”
Despite high praise for his commitment behind the scenes, the results on the pitch just never followed. And the January departure of Stuart Lancaster — the coach who brought him to Racing and gave him his England debut — may have been the final straw.
“The departure in January of the man who had brought him in (Stuart Lancaster) probably influenced his thinking.”
Whether it's Saracens or a left-field move to Leicester, Farrell’s French chapter looks close to ending. The question now is — where next?
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw's dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: "Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."
#4. Jean de Villiers (South Africa)
He is a retired South African rugby union player who made a lasting impact on the international stage.
As a versatile back, he showcased his skills and leadership abilities as the captain of the Springboks from 2012 to 2015.
De Villiers' playing career spanned over a decade, during which he exhibited exceptional athleticism and a powerful presence on the field.
He was widely respected for his tactical knowledge, unwavering commitment, and ability to inspire his teammates.
De Villiers remains an influential figure in the rugby world and continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and commentary.
Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."
#3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
McCaw is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game.
The flankers career was defined by his exceptional skills, relentless work rate, and unparalleled leadership abilities.
He captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as a true icon of the sport.
Known for his ability to win turnovers and dominate the breakdown, McCaw's impact on the game was immeasurable. Beyond his playing career, he continues to be an influential figure, inspiring future generations of rugby players.
Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.
"Maybe he will be at the top for many people.
"New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."
#2. Paul O'Connell & Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)
O'Connell is a former Irish rugby union player known for his towering presence and exceptional leadership skills.
As a lock, he captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leading them to memorable victories. O'Connell's fearless competitiveness and humility made him a respected figure in the rugby community.
Meanwhile, O'Driscoll is an iconic Irish rugby union player and one of the greatest centres in the game's history.
His exceptional skill set, speed, and agility made him a constant threat on the field. O'Driscoll captained both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.
"O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.
I found them excellent to deal with."
#1. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Dusautoir is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his incredible defensive skills and fearless tackling. As a flanker, he captained the French national team from 2009 to 2015 and was a key figure in their formidable defense.
The flankers physicality, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opponents' play made him a formidable force on the field. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2011.
Dusautoir's leadership and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring aspiring rugby players around the world.
Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.
"He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."
