Mateo Carreras’ reflection on the challenge of playing in Europe for Argentines

After a good passage through Newcastle Falconsin the Premiership, Matthew Carreras came to Bayonne as a medical joker in February 2024 and since then the winger from Tucumán has three tries and 720 minutes played in the Top 14. All rugby, in Disney+.

The Argentine back acknowledged that his integration has been facilitated by the presence of compatriots (Facundo Bosch, Rodrigo Bruni, Lucas Paulos and Martin Villar), but admitted that combining European rugby and international commitments is not always easy.

“As Argentines who play in the northern hemisphere, we don’t have real vacations. He Rugby Championship overlaps with the Top 14, making the season long and difficult. But the objective is still to recover and perform well for the club“.

Although the man from Tucumán made a name for himself in his first game with Bayonne, scoring a try against Pau, he only played five games last season. This was due to a concussion and neck pain after the game against Bordeaux at the end of April.

Regarding its continuity, he commented: “The idea is to grow and play more and more minutes. I want to participate as much as possible and try to play as many games as I can, staying physically fit to help the team. I don’t think Top 14 rugby or international rugby is a different sport, but there are differences. For example, everything is a little more physical, more static“.

Gregory PatatBayonne head coach, gave his opinion on the present of the wing The Pumas: “Mateo is better integrated this season. Last year he came down a path that is never easy and, with his comings and goings in the national team, he has been weakened. Get to know our environment and the very high standards better. Just like Rodrigo Bruniis a premium player and can obviously make the difference in a close match. He is not yet at 100% of his potential. He lacks a little punch and explosiveness. We hope it becomes the X factor that it proved to be during the World Cup.“.

Facundo Boschthe Tucuman’s teammate in the French team, also dedicated a few words to him: “Mateo, he’s a headache for everyone! Nobody is safe, he never stops, he’s always a joke. He’s always a little complicated, but he’s someone who lifts up the group”.