Shaun Edwards has put an end to speculation regarding his immediate future by agreeing a deal to join the Argentina coaching staff until the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Edwards, 59, will continue his consultancy role with England‘s women’s team before joining Felipe Contepomi’s Pumas staff.
“I’m delighted to join Felipe Contepomi, his coaching staff and the Argentina rugby team at the end of this month until the World Cup next year in Australia,” said Edwards.
“I’ve always admired the ability and quality of Argentine players and I hope to bring some of my international experience to the team during the next year.”
Move after World Cup?
Edwards, one of the most respected defence coaches in the game, left his position in the France set up earlier this year after helping them win three Six Nations titles.
Former Argentina head coach and hooker Mario Ledesma has been appointed to take charge of the Pumas forwards.
Both he and Edwards will join Contepomi’s team at the end of October ahead of Nations Championship matches against Ireland, Italy and France in November.
The former Wigan RL scrum-half won four Premiership titles and two Champions Cups while coaching at Wasps before a trophy-laden 12 years on Wales‘ staff alongside Warren Gatland before joining the French set up.
England assistant coach Joe El-Abd will take up a role in the Top 14 with Clermont Auvergne following RWC2027.
His departure could then pave the way for Edwards to become part of the England men’s coaching team.
El-Abd, , said: “I’m incredibly proud of my time with England since joining in 2024 and I’m thoroughly enjoying being part of this set-up.
“There is a huge amount that I still want to achieve with England and my focus between now and the World Cup won’t change.
“After that, the opportunity to return to France is one I’m excited about.
“A large part of my life has been spent playing and coaching in France, and it’s a country that is home to me and my young family.
“But there is plenty of work to do before then.
“I’m fully committed to giving everything I can to help England achieve success, starting with our Nations Championship games next month.”
England head coach Steve Borthwick said: “Joe is an outstanding coach and continues to make a significant contribution to both the team and the environment.
“His knowledge of the game and the quality of his coaching, have made him a hugely valuable member of our coaching team.
“I know he will continue to give everything to the team and will be working as hard as ever to help us achieve success over the next 12 months.”
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