Montpellier’s new powerhouse, Billy Vunipola, is feeling rejuvenated after a tough few seasons in England. The 31-year-old number eight, who recently left Saracens to join the French Top 14, admits he’s in "better shape" than he has been in years—physically and mentally. After 11 years of donning the Saracens jersey, Vunipola’s move to Montpellier signifies more than just a change of scenery; it marks a personal revival for a player whose career has been punctuated by highs and lows.
“I’m probably in better shape than I’ve ever been in the last two or three years,” Vunipola revealed in an interview with Rugbyrama. The transition to French rugby has evidently sparked something new within him. For a player who’s often struggled with injuries in recent seasons, this resurgence is not just about fitness, but also finding joy in the game once again. “This is not due to my previous club; it’s me who’s responsible. When I got here and discovered the environment, I just had to make do. I really enjoyed the challenges it gave me.”
Vunipola’s time with Saracens, spanning over a decade, was a period marked by both triumph and hardship. From European championships to England caps, Vunipola has long been a figurehead of English rugby. Yet, despite his vast experience and presence, injury setbacks in recent seasons made it clear that a change was needed. And that change came in the form of Montpellier.
A New Beginning—But at What Cost?
Vunipola’s move to France came with a significant consequence: the loss of his England spot. Under the Rugby Football Union (RFU) rules, players who ply their trade outside of England are ineligible for international selection. For Vunipola, this decision effectively halts his tally at 75 England caps. His last appearance for the national side came in their painful World Cup semi-final loss to South Africa in 2023, where he was deployed off the bench.
While stepping away from the England setup was undoubtedly difficult, Vunipola seems at peace with his decision. He’s found new motivation in the challenges that French rugby brings—embracing the unknown, pushing himself to adapt, and ultimately, rekindling his love for the game. "It’s not that I didn’t like it, but you get used to it after 10 or 11 years," he shared, reflecting on his career in England. The move to France has reignited the flame that perhaps had dimmed in his final seasons at Saracens.
Brotherly Bond—Tested on the Field
One of the more emotional aspects of Billy Vunipola’s journey in Montpellier has been the change in his relationship with his brother Mako. The two brothers have spent most of their careers playing together for both club and country, with Mako now at Vannes. Their rugby paths, once intertwined, have now diverged, and last Saturday’s match between Montpellier and Vannes was a rare and “strange” moment for the Vunipola brothers.
Montpellier triumphed 26-24 in a nail-biting victory, but for Billy, playing against his brother was a surreal experience. “The distance has brought us closer, knowing that he’s not there all the time,” he admitted. Having spent over a decade in each other’s pockets, the two siblings are now navigating their respective journeys apart, but with a renewed appreciation for the time they share together. “It was very nice to see him, but it was very difficult to play against him. I wouldn’t say I was trying to avoid him, but let’s say I wasn’t really trying to attack him,” Vunipola laughed, capturing the emotional tug-of-war that comes with competing against family.
Montpellier’s New Challenge
As Vunipola settles into life at Montpellier, he’s already proving his worth to the club. Saturday’s victory over Vannes wasn’t just about securing points; it was a personal statement. Montpellier fans and coaches alike are eager to see Vunipola at his best, especially now that he feels he’s in “better shape” than ever. The intensity of the French Top 14 offers a different kind of rugby—a test of endurance, adaptability, and flair. For Vunipola, these new challenges appear to be exactly what he needs to reignite his career.
His move to France, while closing the door on further England caps, has opened up a world of opportunity for personal and professional growth. No longer under the constant spotlight of the England national team, Vunipola has the freedom to focus entirely on his game, his health, and his next chapter.
A Legacy in the Making
Billy Vunipola’s journey is far from over. While his days in an England shirt may be behind him, his story in rugby continues to unfold, now against the backdrop of the French Top 14. For a player who’s seen the highs of international success and the lows of injury-plagued seasons, the move to Montpellier seems to have breathed new life into his career.
Reflecting on his time with Saracens and England, Vunipola remains grateful but forward-looking. The lessons learned, the memories made, and the battles fought have all shaped him into the player he is today. Now, with his sights set on new challenges, Billy Vunipola is ready to write the next chapter of his rugby career—one that will be defined not by his past, but by his future.
