After a tough year abroad, Owen Farrell is back on home turf with Saracens—where many feel he truly belongs.
But his return has sparked a familiar debate: will we see him back in an England shirt? Or should this comeback be all about club, not country?
A Rocky Ride in France Ends with a Return to North London
Farrell’s time with Racing 92 didn’t exactly go to plan.
Injuries kept him from finding his rhythm, and the kind of form he’s known for never quite materialised.
Now 33, with over a hundred Test caps under his belt, he’s stepping back into familiar territory at StoneX Stadium—hoping to rediscover the sharpness that made him such a force in English rugby.
At his unveiling this week, the message was clear: it’s time to reset.
He needs to focus on fitness, form, and getting back to his best at Saracens.
England and Lions Options Are Already Overflowing
Even if Farrell gets back to peak form, is there room for him at the top?
England are spoilt for choice at fly-half, with Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, and George Ford already in the mix.
All three are performing, and crucially, they represent the current and future of the team.
Then there’s the Lions. Andy Farrell—yes, his dad—and Steve Borthwick know exactly what Owen brings to the table.
But given his recent form and absence from the Test scene, he’s not even at the top of the standby list.
Names like Sam Prendergast and Ford are already queuing up ahead of him.
Should Farrell Even Want to Come Back to the National Setup?
Here’s the thing: Farrell is never going to be a bit-part player.
If he comes back, he takes up a central role.
That could shake up a squad that’s started to find a new identity without him.
Maro Itoje is now captain, and reintroducing a figure as dominant as Farrell could unintentionally rock the boat.
There’s also the emotional toll. Farrell has been under intense scrutiny in the past, especially towards the end of his last stint with England.
Why put himself—and his family—through that again?
For Saracens, It’s a Perfect Homecoming
While England might not need Farrell, Saracens certainly do.
The club is in a period of transition, and bringing back their talisman could make a huge difference.
He offers leadership, experience, and the kind of grit that younger players can rally around.
Farrell has given so much to the game—body, mind, and soul.
This next chapter might be his last as a player, and it feels right that it happens in North London, where it all began.
The Inevitable Future in Coaching
Here’s a not-so-bold prediction: even if he doesn’t wear the England shirt again as a player, we’ll definitely see him back with the Red Rose—on the sidelines.
His knowledge, passion, and presence make him a natural fit for a coaching role.
Owen Farrell may no longer be the future of England on the pitch, but he almost certainly is off it.