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Joey Carbery Returns to Leinster After Successful Bordeaux Spell

BBC Sport •
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Leinster have secured the signature of Ireland fly-half Joey Carbery ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. The 30-year-old New Zealander brings 37 international caps back to the province after spending two seasons in France with Bordeaux-Begles, where he claimed two Investec Champions Cup titles. This represents a significant coup for the Irish side as they bolster their backline options.

Carbery's journey began in the Leinster academy, making 37 senior appearances before moving to Munster in 2018. During his initial spell, he helped Leinster achieve a Pro14 and Champions Cup double in 2018. His subsequent move to Munster proved fruitful as he played a key role in their United Rugby Championship triumph in 2023. The experienced playmaker now returns to familiar surroundings.

Head coach Leo Cullen welcomed Carbery back, describing the move as feeling like a 'homecoming' for the player. Carbery expressed his delight at rejoining the province, highlighting familiar faces in the squad alongside exciting new additions. His return follows Ciaran Frawley's departure to Connacht, creating space in the squad.

The signing strengthens Leinster's options at fly-half as they prepare for European competition. Carbery's experience at the highest level will prove invaluable, particularly after his successful spell in French rugby. This move addresses a key position need for the province.