Munster Rugby Head Coach Johann van Graan has made the decision to depart the province at the end of the current season, on completion of his current contract.
The news was confirmed this morning by Munster Rugby in a statement. It begs the question now of who will be his successor and the name of Ronan O’Gara will loom large in that conversation.
Van Graan has been the second longest serving coach in the professional era and had been offered a two year extension to his current contract. This would have brought him up to seven years in the position but he has now turned down the opportunity to carry on beyond next summer.
“While I was at advanced stages in the contract process earlier this year, I took a step back and reconsidered my options, prioritising what’s best for my family, myself, and Munster Rugby,” he said.
“My family and I settled well into life here, this is our home, and in an ideal world we would love to continue living in Limerick, but I’ve been looking at the bigger picture.”
“After arriving during the 2017/18 season, I am now into my fifth season with this group and in putting Munster first I believe it’s the right decision for me to call time on my contribution and step away at the end of this season.”
“While we have achieved so much together, and still have over six months of the season remaining, I wanted any uncertainty about my future addressed as early as possible.”
“Working with this coaching team, staff, and players we are always striving to do our best for Munster Rugby, and nothing will change on that front.”
“It has been an incredible journey and I’m hugely proud of this group for everything we have done to date knowing there is so much more to come as we move towards the business end of the season.”
Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan added, “We will be disappointed to see Johann go at the end of the season, he will be widely missed after forming such close relationships across the organisation.
“Johann has been a valued addition to the province and integral to all the successes we have achieved over the past four years.”
“His hands-on approach and tireless work ethic have ensured the structures are well in place for continued success and we know he will continue to deliver on all fronts for the remainder of the season.”
“For now, we are working closely with the IRFU in looking to identify suitable replacements with the confirmed departures of both Johann and Stephen Larkham next summer.”
Munster have reached two Champions Cup semi-finals under his leadership to date, as well as three league semi-finals, and a PRO14 final earlier this year.
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