UBB: Matthieu Jalibert will remain at fly-half

Matthieu Jalibert will continue at fly-half for Bordeaux-Bègles, with coach Yannick Bru ruling out a move to fullback this season. The decision maintains the France international’s established role at club level despite a different use by the national team.

Jalibert, 27, has played at No. 10 for UBB, while France coach Fabien Galthié repositioned him at fullback. That change had reopened discussion about where the player should be used, but Bru said his responsibility was limited to the Bordeaux side and that the team was satisfied with Jalibert’s contribution at fly-half.

The club also has several options at fullback, removing the need to move Jalibert there. Romain Buros is part of the established group, Louis Bielle-Biarrey can cover the position, and Xan Mousquès is a trained fullback who offers versatility. Bru said he would speak with Noel McNamara, but a role change for Jalibert is not currently planned.

The arrangement leaves Jalibert’s club position unchanged while his role with France remains a separate decision. For UBB, the priority is to keep him in the No. 10 role that has defined his season with the team.