Toulon statement: Pierre Mignoni

Toulon have issued a statement revealing they have acceded to a request from director of rugby Pierre Mignoni to ‘take a break this week’ from his duties.

The request comes off the back of a painful 34-14 home loss to Clermont in the Top 14. Indeed, Toulon’s head coach did not hold back after ASM’s win at Mayol, a result that saw Clermont claim an attacking bonus point and knock Toulon out of the top six.

The statement reads: “Pierre Mignoni, Director of Rugby, wanted to take a break this week and the club of course accepted this legitimate request.

“The staff, players, management, and all club employees are more committed than ever to the upcoming Top 14 and Investec Champions Cup matches, aiming to return to the level of performance that RCT deserves.

“We are certain of the solidarity of all our supporters, partners, and passionate fans.

“Now is the time to intensify our efforts, cultivate unity, and strengthen our support.”

L’Equipe report that a visibly shaken Mignoni branded his side’s display in the loss to Clermont as “not worthy of Toulon” and said it was “practically nonexistent”. He questioned his players’ commitment, adding: “There are efforts we’re not making.”

When asked whether he still had the backing of his squad, his response was pointed but guarded: “You have the right to ask. I’ll think about it carefully.”

Mignoni has endured a reasonable spell since taking charge of the club in 2022 after switching from Lyon. Tasked with restoring former glories, the former France halfback has overseen an upward trajectory since taking over the reins, with the Mediterranean club finishing seventh, fourth and third in the last three campaigns respectively.

They have, however, stumbled when push came to shove during the knockout stages, both domestically and in Europe, and currently sit outside the top six in eighth position, leaving Mignoni under mounting scrutiny as expectations at Mayol remain unforgiving.