The manager of the XV of France agreed to comment exclusively for Le Figaro the announcement of the pillar of the UBB, Sunday evening, to end his international career at only 27 years old. “I am surprised, admits Raphaël Ibanez. 27 years old is very young to stop the France team. But, from what I've read, it's a very personal choice. We must respect his decision. Jeff is a laid back, thoughtful, structured person. If he feels he is worn out and not fully invested, then I understand his decision. He is quite firm in his remarks. And he explained everything clearly. ” The regulations would allow Fabien Galthié to select it anyway, but this will not be the case, assures the former captain of the Blues. “Our XV de France project requires, and will require, extraordinary energy. So if he no longer feels 100% for the selection ... To wear the blue jersey, to play at this very high level, you have to be driven by the cause. Now is not the time to be a litigator. Jeff made his decision and made his choice honestly ”
An interview to find in full here
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