Arthur Retière's new position

Arthur Retière, a player trained in the scrum and fly-half at Racing 92, has played in various positions including the wing and occasionally the center. He recently started a match at fly-half for Union Bordeaux-Bègles against Clermont, marking a first for him in that position.

Uniqueness in versatility

Retière has now started a match at each of the seven positions in the backline, from 9 to 15, making him a unique case among current professionals in the Top 14. While other versatile players such as Jérémy Sinzelle, Joe Jonas, Mathis Ferté, and Kalvin Gourgues exist, none can claim the same level of versatility as Retière.

Comparisons with other players

Internationally, Jordie Barrett also represents versatility, but due to his height of 1.96 meters, he is not suited for the scrum. Retière was moved to fly-half to allow Hugo Reus to rest, a decision made possible by his technical background, solidity, and self-confidence.

Preparation and performance

Retière did not show the ease of a full-time fly-half in the playmaking but applied himself to play correctly without putting his team in danger or committing major errors. He sought advice from his brother Edgar, a fly-half at Biarritz, and Matthieu Jalibert to prepare for this experience.

Personal reflections and future

Retière mentioned on Canal+ that he was told not to be tackled with the ball, which happened a few times. He found the position complicated but enjoyable, noting it was a bit harder than at the wing because he did not take as many hits, but it was not too bad either.

Future potential and plans

Maxime Lucu, speaking for RugbyPass in a press conference, stated that Retière can do everything and that another new position has been unlocked for him. Retière, who has one cap from 2020, will head to Racing next year on the eve of his 30th birthday. He may surpass the tackle by the end of his career after 2 or 3 throwing lessons and a few extra kilograms.