Racing 92 have confirmed that Munster full-back Simon Zebo will be playing for the club next year in an interview with the player before both clubs play each other in the Champions Cup on Sunday.
Munster confirmed in October that the 27-year-old would be leaving the province at the end of the season, however, it was reported that Zebo had signed a pre-contract with the Parisian club leaving a level of uncertainty over his future with Simon Mannix’s Pau also said to be one of a number of other clubs interested in the player.
Zebo told the club’s website that it was a difficult decision to leave Munster but that former teammate Casey Laulala and France international Teddy Thomas helped influence his decision.
“It was difficult at first but I think they understood and accepted my decision,” Zebo told the club’s website.
“They wished me success in this challenge that I imposed myself. The decision was very difficult to make, I had a great connection with them, with everyone at the club but it was the right moment.
“[Laulala and Thomas] They convinced me by telling me about life at the club, on its own side very family, the fact that we were always there for each other, whether in the team or in the club as a whole.
“It is important to me that aspect. I like to feel surrounded, like family and I know that at Racing it will be the case. It is also a club that has a long and long history, a tradition, like Munster, but at the same time a very ambitious club, looking to the future and focused on winning.
“It is the very high level, like Munster, without denying the human side. In this sense the two clubs have a lot in common. I am a very determined person, a real competitor but I also need human warmth in everyday life.”
Zebo added that he plans to return to the French capital at the end of the month to explore the southwestern suburbs so that he can look at prospective properties.
“Probably late January for a few days, just to visit Meudon, Sceaux, Le Plessis and the surrounding area,” Zebo said when asked when he planned t return.
“I will have to find a house for my family and I, a kindergarten for my son. For my daughter we still have some time! “
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