Gatland eyes return to UK

Warren Gatland has opened the door to return to a high-profile coaching position in Europe.

In an exclusive interview to mark his signing for Telegraph Sport asa rugby columnist, Gatland says he may look for a position overseas when his contract with the Chiefs is up next summer, and has not ruled out a return to the United Kingdom.

The British and Irish Lions head coach returned to New Zealand in 2020 after taking Wales to the semifinals of the World Cup in Japan, ending a glittering 12-year tenure in which he won four Six Nations titles, including three Grand Slams.

Gatland, who was granted a sabbatical from his role as director of rugby at the Chiefs to take the Lions to South Africa last summer, says he is now keen on a new challenge, potentially in the UK, having already coached in the Premiership with Wasps.

The decision is likely to lead to speculation linking him with the England job, as Eddie Jones is due to step down next year, or another international position following next year’s World Cup in France.

“I am contracted with the New Zealand Rugby Union for the next 12 months,” said Gatland. “After that, I am probably going to look for another role overseas.

“I loved my time as a young coach in Ireland [with Connacht and then as head coach of the national side], my time with Wasps and, of course, Wales. It was pretty challenging but the people made it special for me in Wales. I could end up in the UK again.

“I loved my time in the northern hemisphere, the friends I made, and I enjoyed the rugby.

“I have nothing concrete yet and haven’t had any conversations.”