There’s Been Another Twist In The Johan Goosen Retirement Saga
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Johann Goosen shocked the rugby world by announcing his retirement over the weekend.
According to his club Racing 92, the Springbok has reportedly retired from rugby at the age of 24. Racing broke the news in a statement from club president Jacky Lorenzetti on the club’s website on Friday.
Goosen was named Top 14 Player of the Season for 2015/16 after helping the club win the French title and reaching the Champions Cup final. Goosen started at fullback for the Springboks in their most recent Test against Wales.
The talented playmaker moved to France in 2014 after beginning his professional career with the Cheetahs in Super Rugby. Chairman of Racing 92, Jackie Lorenzetti, announced the news in a strongly worded statement, saying that that club may take legal action against Goosen and his advisers.
“Goosen, whose contract was overwhelmingly re-structured a year ago, now claims to be free in an incredible way. He has announced today that he has taken the incredible decision to end his playing career, to return to South Africa for a strong role as a commercial director.
“We regret that such a talented player has gone astray and decided to abandon professional rugby as it seems obvious that the role of commercial director is incompatible with high level sport.
“We wish to add that Racing 92 has always strongly supported Johan Goosen both morally and financially.
“And while it has unfortunately proved in recent times that there is a certain lack of vis-à-vis between the player and his coaches and more generally of all members of the club and its fans, we hope it quickly becomes aware that compliance with a contract like that of a given word is the basis of all human and professional relationships.
“Naturally, Racing 92 reserve the right to give such conduct all appropriate legal actions both towards Johan Goosen as those who advise him.”
The latest news today however suggests that Goosen will not retire, but simply used it as a ploy to get out of his contract. His suitor- Mohed Altrad, who owns Top 14 giants Montpellier. This is where it gets interesting however…
LNR rules state that Goosen cannot play for another French club for 18 months having announced his retirement, however Altrad is in talks to buy a majority shareholding in Premiership side Gloucester where obviously the LNR rules wouldn’t apply.
Altrad wants Goosen to line out for Gloucester, not Montpellier, leaving him free to continue playing. Madness.
