Léo Barré made a surprising return to the French national team, showcasing his skills with a standout performance that included 131 meters gained, two tries, and a disallowed score. His confidence and team spirit shone through as they aimed to overcome past challenges against Italy. Barré’s impressive display could influence team selections for the upcoming match in Dublin, where competition among players remains fierce, highlighting the depth of talent in the French squad.
Unexpected Comeback: Léo Barré’s Impressive Return
Léo Barré candidly admits he was taken aback by his own selection. After missing the initial two matches of the Tournament due to a concussion sustained in Vannes prior to the Blues’ training camp, Barré made a cautious return at Marcoussis. However, he quickly found himself thrust into the spotlight. “I was a bit surprised at the beginning of the week to learn that I was selected for this match. But I had to be ready. And the leaders supported me well for that,” he shared.
Dominating Performance: A Showcase of Skill
Ready or not, Barré dazzled with an outstanding performance, amassing 131 meters with the ball—significantly leading both teams. He beat six defenders and scored two tries, with another disallowed due to a forward pass. His agile runs and pinpoint accuracy while integrating into the attacking line marked a triumphant comeback for the 22-year-old from Paris, who celebrated his 7th cap in Rome.
When discussing the dynamics within the team, Barré expressed confidence: “I felt good, the team felt good. We were eager to deliver a big performance against an Italian side that had given us trouble in the past. We had maximum fun. It’s a good reaction after that frustrating one-point loss to England…” Reflecting on the offensive whirlwind that saw 11 tries scored—a record for a Tournament match—he added, “I wanted to have fun and be present. Wearing this jersey fills me with pride, and I aim to give it my all.”
His remarkable performance is sure to stir discussions among the French XV coaching staff in the days ahead. It likely influences Matthieu Jalibert’s future with the team, as Fabien Galthié and his assistants could easily shift Thomas Ramos from fullback to fly-half, making room for Barré. The upcoming challenge in Dublin on March 8 raises a crucial question: Will they opt for Romain Ntamack, who returns from suspension, or keep Barré in the mix?
“There is a hierarchy to respect,” Barré acknowledges, contemplating the intense competition. He knows the stakes are high and that nothing is guaranteed. “Théo (Attissogbe), Louis (Bielle-Biarrey), and I, along with the other young players, are here to foster competition and help the team excel. We all aimed to impress the coaching staff and the veterans who guided us throughout the week.”
Looking ahead to the Aviva Stadium match, Barré is eager: “For sure, I want to play. We all want to be on the field. It’s exciting to have that hope, and we’re working towards it every day. However, we understand that the decisions are not ours to make,” he wisely reminds. “We recognize the immense talent within the French squad.”