Warren Gatland gives first interview after taking shock new job and reveals who he spoke to about it
Warren Gatland gives first interview after taking shock new job and reveals who he spoke to about it
The Kiwi coach says he's been impressed by the standard of talent so far
Warren Gatland has given his first interview since arriving in Uruguay
(Image: Instagram: cap_rugby )
Warren Gatland says he's excited to get started at Uruguayan side Penarol, and says he's already been impressed by the level of talent at his disposal.
Gatland has taken up an advisory role at the club ahead of the Super Rugby Americas (SRA) play-off finals, just three months after ending his second spell with Wales.
The 61-year-old will reportedly also contribute to Uruguay's bid to reach the Rugby World Cup.
Uruguay have a qualifier against Paraguay in August and could play either Chile or Brazil for a place at the 2027 tournament in Australia. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby.
"Before I came here, it's my first time, I've been to Argentina a number of times, so it's not a big country," he said in his first interview since making the move to the Montevideo-based side.
"It's about the same size as New Zealand. A few less people. But I did have a look at from an an economic point of view and a political point of view, how stable it is in South America and how safe it is.
"I spoke to a good friend of mine, Craig White, who was with Uruguay in a couple of World Cups and he said 'you'll have a fantastic time and the people will look after you and they're incredibly friendly and very hospitable'.
"So I'm excited to be here and I'm looking forward to it.
"I've been lucky enough to play Uruguay in a few World Cups and so it's good to be here with Penarol, and having a look at how rugby's come on in Uruguay over a number of years.
"It's my second day here but I've been very impressed with the attitude of the players and the work of the coaches and the presentations.
"My Spanish isn't very good so I'm trying to pick up as many names as I can and some phrases and try and understand as much as I can."
But while there could well be a language barrier, the level of talent has clearly still managed to catch the eye of the New Zealander. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here.
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"I've enjoyed it so far and been, like I said, very impressed with the attitude of the players and how everyone's been preparing and it's a very big game for them this weekend.
"Having watched some of the Sevens players I thought in the world Sevens circuit they did extremely well. I was impressed by some of those players and some of them are here now. They look very athletic and skilful.
"There's some big boys here. Some athletic boys and I'm looking forward to seeing how they go over the next few weeks. "
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