Montpellier Hérault Rugby is clearly not resting on its laurels as the new Top 14 season approaches. The club has officially announced the arrival of no fewer than eight new players, signaling a significant recruitment drive aimed at bolstering the squad across multiple positions.
This influx of talent brings a diverse mix of experience and potential, drawing players from across the globe as well as from within France. It’s a clear statement of intent from the “Hérault” side, indicating serious ambitions for the upcoming campaign.
Among the most prominent names joining the ranks are several established internationals. Scotland`s seasoned scrum-half, Ali Price, makes the move to France on a two-year deal, bringing valuable Test match experience to the half-back pairing. Adding power and set-piece expertise to the tight five is Wales lock Adam Beard, who joins on a three-year contract from Ospreys. Furthermore, former Wallabies fullback Tom Banks arrives on a two-year agreement, promising pace and finishing ability from the backfield.
The recruitment extends beyond just big-name internationals. The club has also secured the services of New Zealand hooker Ricky Riccitelli (formerly of Hurricanes and Blues) and Argentina centre Justo Piccardo, who recently earned his first Test cap for the Pumas. These signings underline Montpellier`s reach in the global rugby market.
Strengthening their French core, Montpellier welcomes winger Donovan Taofifenua from Racing 92. Taofifenua was part of France`s U20 World Cup-winning squad in 2019, representing exciting domestic talent. From across the channel, English centre Lennox Anyanwu joins from Harlequins, adding another dimension to the midfield.
Completing the octet is back-row forward Alexander Masibaka. At just 23, Masibaka returns to Montpellier (where he had a previous stint in the academy) after two seasons with Angoulême. Having initially played in Australia, he has recently switched allegiance to Scotland, adding another internationally-aligned player to the roster.
The varied contract lengths, ranging from Piccardo`s one-season deal to Masibaka`s commitment through 2028, suggest a strategy that balances immediate impact with long-term squad building. Integrating this significant number of new faces and forging a cohesive unit will undoubtedly be the coaching staff`s primary challenge heading into the preseason. However, based on this recruitment, Montpellier appears well-equipped and determined to make a strong challenge in the highly competitive Top 14.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood