The defensive guru is in negotiations to leave his role with France
Lions legend Simon Shaw has tipped Shaun Edwards for a role with Italy as the legendary defensive coach nears the exit door in France.
Former Wales defensive guru Edwards is understood to be in negotiations to leave his role in French rugby early, with the 59-year-old set to play no part in next month’s inaugural Nations Championship. With Edwards set to leave Fabien Galthie’s coaching ticket despite winning three Six Nations crowns from seven championships with France, there’s likely to be no shortage in interest for the revered former Great Britain rugby league international.
Naturally, given his influence on Welsh rugby during his time as defence coach, many Welsh fans have already expressed a desire to see Edwards – who so nearly stayed on under Wayne Pivac – to return.
However, with Steve Tandy having hired Pete Murchie as his new defence coach, that seems unlikely.
England has always been the job that has seemingly passed Edwards by, with the former Wasps head coach having come close in the past.
Again though, there’s not believed to be a vacancy in Steve Borthwick’s set-up.
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However, Shaw – who played under Edwards at Wasps – believes another Six Nations side could be the perfect destination for the Wigan native.
In a LinkedIn post, Shaw called the move to get rid of Edwards “short-sighted”, before suggesting Italy should look at him.
They currently have former Cardiff coach Richard Hodges looking after their defence.
“Shaun Edwards has always been one, if not my favourite coach,” said Shaw in the post.
“Not because of the trophies, although there are plenty of them. Not because of the defensive systems, although they are among the best the game has seen.
“For me and so many others, it is his ability to keep things simple. The KISS principle — Keep It Simple, Stupid.
“The best coaches take complex problems and make them understandable. They create clarity, accountability, and belief. Edwards has done that everywhere he has coached, from club rugby to international rugby.
“Recent speculation that France could be willing to let Edwards leave has been surprising, and in many ways short-sighted. Coaches of his calibre are exceptionally rare.
“His value extends far beyond organising a defensive line or preparing a team for the next opponent. He has been a central figure in France’s rise to the top of the international game, helping shape standards, culture, and consistency within the squad.
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“Allowing someone with that level of influence to walk away would be difficult to understand and could ultimately prove an ignorant assessment of the value he continues to bring. His teams know exactly what is expected of them. Players trust the system because they understand it.
“Under pressure, simplicity wins. If his next move were to Italy, it would be a prudent one for the Azzurri.
“Italy have made significant strides in recent years and possess a talented group of players, but Edwards’ ability to instil clarity, defensive resilience, and winning habits could help accelerate their development and turn potential into consistent results at the highest level.
“That is why his influence goes far beyond defence. He builds standards, culture, and confidence.
“Whether it was Wales, France, or any team fortunate enough to work with him, the impact has always been visible. In a sport that can sometimes overcomplicate things, Shaun Edwards is a reminder that the most effective solutions are often the simplest.
“A coach whose influence extends well beyond the tackle. One of the best the game has ever seen. The stats speak for themselves!”
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