It looks like Owen Farrell might be packing his bags for North London again.
After a tough first season in France, the England legend could be on his way back to Saracens just a year after leaving.
Conversations have started between his current club, Racing 92, and his former team, Saracens, about a potential return—this time in a player-coach role.
Farrell still has more than a year left on his contract in Paris, but the 33-year-old is now seriously considering cutting that short.
Injuries have made life tough in the TOP14, and it’s clear the physical toll has started to weigh on him.
Injuries and Change Have Shifted Farrell’s Priorities
When Farrell made the big move to Racing 92 in 2024, he signed a two-year contract and was welcomed by head coach Stuart Lancaster.
But things didn’t go quite to plan. Lancaster was let go in February, and since then, Farrell has found it hard to get into a rhythm—both on the pitch and physically.
Though his family has settled well into life in Paris, sources suggest Farrell has realised the French league’s demanding style isn’t doing his body any favours.
There’s also a sense of guilt—earning around £1 million a year without being able to regularly feature for the team has reportedly weighed on him.
A Player-Coach Role Back at Saracens Could Be the Ideal Fit
Now, Farrell is eyeing a return to where it all began.
A comeback to Saracens, but with a twist—he wants to take on a dual role as both a player and coach.
Talks are still in the early stages, but a key issue will be the financial side.
Racing 92 paid Saracens around £500,000 for Farrell last year, and they’re expected to ask for that same amount to let him leave early.
Saracens are open to the idea, especially since they’re on the hunt for a new attack coach—although Farrell wouldn’t be stepping directly into that spot.
He’s seen more as someone who could gradually transition into a leadership role while still contributing on the field.
Leicester Tigers Are Also in the Hunt for Farrell
Farrell’s not short on options. Leicester Tigers, who are scrambling to find a new fly-half, have also shown interest.
They’re losing both Handré Pollard and Jamie Shillcock this summer, which leaves a big gap in their backline.
Leicester are also tracking veteran Australian James O’Connor as a possible alternative.
But if Farrell becomes available, they’ll be right there in the conversation.
Mark McCall Plays It Cool, But Coaching Could Be Farrell’s Future
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall didn’t give too much away when asked about the rumours. He downplayed the idea, calling it “pie in the sky.”
Still, he acknowledged that Farrell’s future lies in coaching, saying the game is “in his skin” and praising his rugby intelligence and passion.
Farrell’s been part of Saracens for 16 years, winning countless Premiership and European titles.
He stepped back from international rugby in 2023, after earning 112 England caps, to focus on his mental well-being.
That decision signaled a shift in priorities—and perhaps paved the way for this next chapter.
James O’Connor Could Be Leicester’s Backup Plan
If Farrell ends up back with Saracens, Leicester could turn to O’Connor instead.
The 34-year-old has impressed in New Zealand with the Crusaders and is out of contract at the end of the 2025 Super Rugby season.
He’s got plenty of English rugby experience too, having played for both London Irish and Sale Sharks earlier in his globe-trotting, often turbulent career.
O’Connor has 64 caps for Australia and hasn’t played a Test since 2022—but he’s in the mix to face the British & Irish Lions this summer.
His versatility across the backline and big-game experience make him a serious contender.
Geoff Parling’s Inside Knowledge Could Shape Leicester’s Move
Adding another layer to Leicester’s interest in O’Connor is Geoff Parling.
The former England lock is set to take over as Tigers head coach and is currently working in Australia.
That gives him a unique insight into O’Connor’s current form and potential fit.
Parling’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Leicester.
They’ve re-signed young fly-half Charlie Titcombe from the Scarlets, but he’s not yet ready to lead the line solo.
They need a proven playmaker—and whether that’s Farrell or O’Connor remains to be seen.