Mannini looking forward to playing at the 'highest level' with Harlequins

Italy international Sara Mannini will call the Twickenham Stoop home next season after she signed for Harlequins.

The 20-year-old, who played in all five of her team’s 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations fixtures, represented her country at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and was named Serie A Elite Player of the Season for her 2025/26 efforts with Rugby Colorno 1975.

Mannini has won 17 Italy caps since her 2024 debut and can play at fly-half or centre. She joins fellow Italy international Silvia Turani at the JAECOO Premiership Women’s Rugby club.

Mannini said: “Joining Harlequins is a significant step in my career. I have always admired the Harlequins’ style of play and the level of the PWR, and I am truly looking forward to testing myself at the highest level.

“I’m excited to start this new adventure and grateful for this opportunity to grow alongside this team.”

Last season Harlequins finished fifth in the PWR table and four points adrift of fourth-place Trailfinders Women.

This summer Ross Chisholm’s side have seen Ellie Kildunne depart West London for Bristol Bear, but have announced the signings of Marlie Packer, Rosie Galligan and Sisilia Tuipulotu.

Adding international quality to their squad is a surefire way for Harlequins to make an instant return to knockout rugby in the English women’s top flight.

Ross Chisholm, Harlequins head coach, said: “We’re really excited to welcome Sara to Harlequins. She is a young player but already has plenty of international experience and is able to play in a number of positions.

“I thought she was particularly impressive for Italy during the Six Nations and feel that she is going to be able to continue developing as a player here at Quins.

“She is a great distributor of the ball and also has great work rate in defence. I’m looking forward to working with her next season.”