Shaun Edwards has confirmed he wants to return to international coaching in time for the 2027 Six Nations after leaving France.
The 59-year-old is officially available after completing negotiations over his departure from the French set-up.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with MailOnline, Edwards revealed he is now “open to offers” as he considers his next move.
“I’ve been on gardening leave for a little bit but I’m definitely open to offers now, until I sort out a full-time role,” he said.
Edwards targets 2027 return
Edwards has made no secret of his desire to return to Test rugby, admitting he misses the pressure of the international game.
“International rugby is tense, but those nerves, that tension and that pressure is addictive. Very, very addictive.”
His preference is to be involved in next year's Six Nations.
“The Six Nations is my tournament,” Edwards said. “It’s what I judge myself on. I love the history of it. I love being involved in it.”
Asked whether he would be disappointed not to be involved in 2027, he added: “Of course I would be.
“Having been the most successful coach in the history of the competition, I’ll be a little bit cheesed off if I’m not.”
Shaun Edwards also opened the door to finally coaching England.
“I’m a proud Englishman and everybody loves to represent their country, don’t they?” he said. “I’m no different.”
There is currently no suggestion the RFU has approached Edwards, but his availability could attract considerable interest ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
“I’ve won 19 trophies in rugby union and now I’m thinking about how I’m going to get to 20!” he added.
POLL:
Five possible destinations for Shaun Edwards
5. Fiji
Fiji would be an intriguing option ahead of the World Cup.
Shaun Edwards' defensive expertise could add another dimension to a side already capable of causing problems for the world's leading nations.
4. South Africa
South Africa would be a blockbuster move.
Edwards clearly has huge respect for Rassie Erasmus, describing him as a “very, very clever man” and praising the Springboks' use of international coaching expertise.
There is no indication of an approach, however, so this remains speculative.
3. Wales
Never rule out a return.
Edwards was central to Wales' success during the Warren Gatland era and knows Welsh rugby extremely well.
MailOnline suggests a return to Cardiff could be an option as Edwards searches for his next role.
2. England
This would undoubtedly generate enormous attention.
Edwards has never coached his home country and has now publicly opened the door.
“I’m a proud Englishman,” he said. “Everybody loves to represent their country, don’t they? I’m no different.”
There is no reported RFU approach at this stage.
1. Six Nations wildcard
Ireland, Scotland and Italy are all mentioned by MailOnline as potential suitors.
Edwards' comments suggest remaining in the Six Nations is a major priority. With the 2027 championship approaching quickly, any change to one of those coaching teams could suddenly put him firmly in the conversation.
