Italian center's debut approaching

The Italian center Tommaso Menoncello, Toulouse's only summer signing, is set to make his debut in the Champions Cup against Exeter on Sunday. He has been described by his new teammates as a player of international class, despite a mixed start to his time with the club.

Early challenges and praise

Menoncello faced some early challenges, including a yellow card for a high tackle and some risky defensive plays during his first appearance for Ernest-Wallon against Bayonne. However, he was named best player of the 2024 Six Nations tournament and has previously played for Italy and his former club Treviso.

Injury and versatility

Menoncello showed promise by breaking through the Rochelais defense from the start but missed the next three matches due to a calf injury. He is versatile, capable of playing in multiple positions, including 12 or 13, and even on the wing. His physical abilities, including an "extraordinary physique" and "legs of fire," have drawn praise from his teammates.

Teammates highlight his potential

Santiago Chocobares, a center teammate, noted Menoncello's potential to bring "physical power in attack" and emphasized that very few players have his "speed and power to make a difference." Menoncello had a consistent rise before joining Toulouse, growing rapidly with Benetton Treviso in the United Rugby Championship and earning 41 caps with Italy.

International career and support

Menoncello launched his international career by becoming the youngest player to score in the history of the Six Nations against France in 2022 but missed the 2023 World Cup in France due to a left biceps injury. Kalvin Gourgues, a French teammate, praised Menoncello's performances in the Six Nations, calling him a "complete player who can do everything" and a "top-class recruit."

Integration and competition

Menoncello is receiving support from Ange Capuozzo, the other Italian international in the squad, who is helping with integration and acting as a translator. With teammates including Capuozzo, Pierre-Louis Barassi, and Santiago Chocobares, Menoncello is strengthening competition among the centers. The team now has four internationals at the position, which Gourgues said is "definitely good for the group's rivalry."