Joe Marchant has returned to England and Sale Sharks after a two-year stint with Stade Français in France, motivated by renewed ambitions to reestablish himself in the England rugby squad. The 30-year-old wing and center reflected on his time abroad, the challenges of missing home comforts, and his evolving relationship with the national team’s coaching staff.

Marchant’s departure from the Gallagher Premiership in 2022 was influenced by discussions with then-England head coach Eddie Jones, who had indicated that Marchant was unlikely to feature in his plans for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Feeling sidelined, Marchant accepted an offer from Stade Français, believing his international future was limited. However, Jones was dismissed shortly after the autumn internationals, and Steve Borthwick succeeded him in December 2022, overturning previous assessments.

Under Borthwick, Marchant was reintegrated into England’s setup, earning selection for both the 2023 Six Nations and the subsequent World Cup. Despite Marchant’s impending ineligibility to represent England once playing abroad—due to regulations restricting selection for overseas players—Borthwick favored him over Henry Slade for the tournament. Reflecting on their discussions, Marchant described candid conversations about his playing style, personal decisions, and future with the national team, which clarified expectations and requirements for his inclusion.

Throughout the World Cup, Marchant was a consistent presence on the field, starting alongside Manu Tuilagi as England advanced to the semi-finals. Following the tournament, he expressed a strong desire to continue representing England, emphasizing his readiness to compete and contribute. Despite aiming for selection in the July Nations Championship Tests, Borthwick opted to see Marchant and other returning players demonstrate form in the Premiership first, citing the need for direct competition against domestic peers.

While Marchant acknowledges missing familiar British comforts such as tea, coffee with milk, digestives, and traditional Sunday roasts during his time in France, he spoke positively about his experiences in Paris. He enjoyed exploring local neighborhoods such as the Marais and the Latin Quarter, and described his tenure at Stade Français as a period of growth, though marked by ups and downs, including semi-final appearances and a relegation battle.

Since his resettlement in England, Marchant noted humorous moments adapting back to the language and culture within his new club environment. He recalled nearly slipping into French phrases during training but expressed enthusiasm to be back playing Premiership rugby and to continue pursuing his place in the England squad with Sale Sharks.