Rhys Carre explains move to Saracens after feeling he “went backwards” in international career

Wales prop Rhys Carre bid farewell to Cardiff as he prepares to rejoin Saracens this summer, citing a stagnation in his international career as the reason for his departure.

The 26-year-old, who made his last appearance for Cardiff in their United Rugby Championship defeat to Edinburgh, expressed his frustration at not being able to break back into the Wales squad after being released from Warren Gatland’s World Cup training squad last summer.

Carre, who has only 20 caps for Wales, explained that despite his improvements at club level, he felt overlooked on the international stage. He mentioned how he broke the news of his exit to Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt, emphasizing that his decision was more about his international prospects rather than his club loyalty.

Having been part of Gatland’s training squad for the 2019 World Cup and making three substitute appearances in the 2023 Six Nations, Carre’s release from the Wales setup last year marked a setback in his aspirations to represent his country.

The Cardiff-born player expressed his desire for a fresh start at Saracens, hoping that the move to London would provide him with the opportunity to reignite his career and push himself to new heights.

As he looks ahead to his future with Saracens, Carre remains optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead, determined to prove himself and earn his place back in the international setup. His departure from Cardiff marks the end of a chapter in his career, but also signals the beginning of a new journey filled with potential and opportunities for growth.