Galarza leaves Gloucester with immediate effect

Mariano Galarza, who has won 25 caps for Argentina, was an integral part of the Cherry and Whites squad since he arrived in early 2015, making 62 appearances over the five seasons he was involved with the club.

The 31-year-old lock faced stiff competition for his spot in the second-row, thanks to the signing of Ed Slater last season and the current swell of form he finds himself in, as well as the additions of Gerbrandt Grobler and Franco Mostert this season.

With Mostert set to join up with the club next week, following the conclusion of his commitments with the Springboks in The Rugby Championship, as well as Tom Savage returning to fitness, Gloucester director of rugby David Humphreys did not want to stand in the way of Galarza playing regular first XV rugby.

The Argentine has joined Bordeaux-Bègles in the Top 14 with immediate effect, bolstering their injury-hit engine room.

Galarza has joined on a contract until the end of the season and views the move as one that is too good to turn down.

“I have loved every minute of my time with Gloucester Rugby. It’s been more than a club, it’s been like a family to me and I had to think long and hard before deciding to move.”

“But this is a great opportunity to play club rugby in France and also for my family and myself to experience life in a different country.”

“I’ve made friends for life here at Gloucester Rugby and it will always have a special place in my heart. There is so much that I will miss, but especially matchdays at Kingsholm, in particular the supporters who have always treated me so well.”

The lock will have played in all three major European leagues when he makes his debut for Bordeaux, having previously had a short stint at Leinster back in 2010.

Watch: Former Gloucester centre Mike Tindall talks about his preferred England midfield.