London Irish have confirmed the departure of Giosué Zilocchi from the Club upon the conclusion of the 2022/23 season.
The prop will leave west London to link up with United Rugby Championship side Benetton Treviso, having signed on from fellow Italian team Zebre Parma towards the conclusion of the 2021/22 campaign.
The 16-cap Italian international suffered a long-term injury in the summer of 2022, and it currently remains unlikely that Zilocchi will play for the Club in the remainder of his time in the capital.
Declan Kidney, London Irish Director of Rugby, empathised with the situation of Zilocchi and valued the contribution the 26-year-old made in his time as an Exile.
“Unfortunately, Giosué’s time here was hampered by injury but on behalf of the Club, I wish him nothing but the best of luck in his future endeavours,” Kidney said.
“Despite him being unable to represent London Irish, he brought with him a fantastic attitude and a great personality in and around Hazelwood, and I am sure that will put him in good stead as his career progresses.”
London Irish in trouble:
London Irish is currently facing a potential financial crisis, as the buy-out of the club has been delayed, leaving players, coaches, and staff worried about whether they will receive their wages later this week.
The Mail Online reports that these individuals are seeking assurances amidst concerns over a possible threat to their monthly pay.
To address the issue, Premiership Rugby and the RFU have claimed that a “cash flow solution” has been found to mitigate the risk of a missed payroll deadline.
However, the solution is dependent on confirmation of new investment from the United States, which has been delayed for some time.
Reliable sources have indicated that this is not the first time this season that there have been doubts over wages, as owner Mick Crossan has been attempting to relinquish control of the club.
Despite repeated assurances that a buy-out is imminent, it has yet to materialize, and employees remain anxious about the situation.
Similar concerns were reportedly raised around Christmas, but they turned out to be unfounded.
London Irish responded to the following story with this statement: “It has been public knowledge that the Club is exploring its options with regards to investment, however no comment will be made until there is anything to announce.
“In regards to recent media reports, London Irish can categorically confirm that all staff will be paid this month. Anything reported to the contrary is pure speculation.”
PREMIERSHIP CLUBS RANKED BY TOTAL DEBT:
#13. Exeter Chiefs – £13m
#12. Gloucester – £27m
#11. Northampton Saints £26.5m
#10. Worcester Warriors – £26.5m
