Laharrague returns to UBB temporarily

Joseph Laharrague, who was loaned to Béziers this season to gain experience in Pro D2, has returned to the UBB on Thursday. Three days before the match against La Rochelle, Yannick Bru lacks options at the half.

Temporary return confirmed

Bordeaux confirmed Laharrague's temporary return, for a few weeks, before he returns to the Hérault. Laharrague is not returning without experience. Champion of France espoirs in 2025 with Bordeaux, he played nine Top 14 matches last season, four of which as a starter.

Laharrague's performance at Béziers

At Béziers, the young number 10 has already scored 39 points, including two tries, in four Pro D2 matches, according to the statistics from LNR. This experience could be valuable for a team that might need his kicking and offensive play at Marcel-Deflandre.

Injuries hamper UBB's options

Yannick Bru must manage physical issues at the half. Matthieu Jalibert has relapsed with a quadriceps injury, Hugo Reus suffered a concussion, and Martin Page-Relo, seen on Wednesday with a sling on his arm, remains uncertain. Arthur Retière, another backup option, is also injured with a shoulder issue.

Possible lineup adjustments

Last week against Gloucester, Maxime Lucu was deployed at fly-half, with Page-Relo at the scrum. If the Italian cannot hold his place on Sunday, Lucu could return to his usual number 9 position, provided there is an available fly-half to play alongside him.

Laharrague adds depth

Laharrague precisely offers this possibility. However, Reus's situation depends on the recovery protocol following his concussion, and nothing guarantees a place on the match sheet for the recalled player from Béziers. Yannick Bru also retains the option of Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who has already been tested at fly-half.

Key match approaching

On Sunday at 21:05, Bordeaux, third with 19 points, will face La Rochelle, fourth with 18 points. In a match as tight in the standings, the quality of the set pieces and offensive organization will be crucial. Laharrague's return expands the options for the UBB, without prejudicing the half chosen.