Calum MacRae Praises Tommaso Menoncello; Predicts Finn Russell as Key Player
Calum MacRae, the former head coach of Benetton Rugby, has announced his departure from the club after four years in Italy. His tenure began in 2022, during which he cultivated a close-knit team environment, reminiscent of his early days at Melrose RFC in Scotland. MacRae is returning to Scotland primarily for family reasons, as his eldest daughter, Bella, is navigating an important phase of her education.
MacRae’s Coaching Journey in Italian Rugby
MacRae gained substantial experience in Italian rugby towards the end of his playing career, serving as a key figure in the transition from player to coach. He started at Venezia, where he lived while playing, and later took on coaching roles at Newcastle Falcons and Edinburgh, lifting the Scotland Sevens team during a period of struggle.
His experience at Benetton has been shaped by strong local support and resources. The club strikes a balance between developing local talent and integrating foreign players into the team. MacRae emphasizes the importance of recruiting players who can compete for a first-team position while maintaining a competitive squad.
Insights on Italy’s Young Talent
Despite the challenges faced by Scotland’s age-grade system, which has been criticized for not producing enough talent, MacRae has observed Italy’s growing strength at the U20 level. He believes that a winning mentality at this stage can set the foundation for future success.
The Upcoming Match-Up: Italy vs. Scotland
MacRae is particularly excited about the upcoming match between Italy and Scotland, scheduled at Stadio Olimpico. He anticipates a thrilling midfield battle featuring Tommaso Menoncello and Nacho Brex, both of whom he coached at Benetton, against Scotland’s Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones.
- Key Match-Ups:
- Tommaso Menoncello vs. Sione Tuipulotu
- Nacho Brex vs. Huw Jones
MacRae has praised Menoncello’s athleticism and competitive nature, describing him as one of the most talented athletes he has worked with. He believes that the partnership with Brex will be crucial in the game. Meanwhile, he acknowledges the skill of Scotland’s midfield duo, emphasizing the need for effective defensive strategies against Italy’s fast-paced play.
Finn Russell: A Pivotal Player
As the match approaches, MacRae identifies Finn Russell as a standout player. Russell’s game control and ability to execute under pressure will be vital for Scotland’s performance. He believes Russell’s presence will be a significant factor in determining the match’s outcome.
Looking Ahead
After his departure from Benetton, MacRae is exploring future opportunities in coaching. There are discussions with several clubs, including Edinburgh and Newcastle. His objective is to develop teams and elevate their performance, leveraging his extensive experience in both Scotland and Italy’s rugby scenes.
In summary, while MacRae leaves behind a legacy at Benetton, his focus now shifts to family and the next chapter of his coaching career, with anticipation for the upcoming Italy vs. Scotland showdown on the horizon.
