Paul O'Connell could leave Stade Francais at the end of the season, with reports circulating in France that he is on his way out of the club. The former Munster second row only joined the French outfit as forwards coach in August of last year, signing a two-year contract, with the option to extend the deal for a further year.
It appears he could leave well before then, however, with French media outlet RMC Sport claiming he has already told some at the club he does not plan to extend his stay beyond the end of the season. One of the reasons for his departure is believed to be the lack of a relationship with Heyneke Meyer, the South African head coach and sporting at the club.
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Stade Français: Paul O’Connell déjà vers la sortie ! https://t.co/q2FwzAD348— RMC Sport (@RMCsport) March 21, 2019
O'Connell's former Munster teammate Mike Prendergast is also believed to be leaving the club, with Toulon interested in bringing him on board.
Should the former Lions captain decide to move on, he will not be short of suitors. His vast experience at the top level, as well his obvious leadership qualities, will make him an attractive proposition for any club. He was previously an advisor with the Munster academy, before a stint with the Ireland U20s last year.
If he decides to step away from coaching, return to his punditry role with the BBC. He won a lot of plaudits during for his role in their Six Nations coverage, and he would be a welcome addition to our tv screens should he decide to go down that route.
