Samu Manoa has kick-started his rugby career in America, four months after leaving Cardiff Blues on compassionate grounds.
The highly rated back-five forward joined the Arms Park region amid some fanfare last summer, with the Blues hoping he would provide experience and ease Nick Williams’ workload at the back of the pack.
But his time in Cardiff proved short lived as he suffered a concussion while making only his third start for the club, returned to America and then reportedly failed to return despite the Blues wanting him back. Shortly after, he requested release from his contract, which was granted.
Now the man who hails from Concord, in California, has resurfaced with Seattle Seawolves, the reigning Major League Rugby champions.
The Blues could be forgiven for wondering what might have been.
When the capital city region signed him last July, the 6ft 6in, 20st player appeared exactly what they wanted, a hard-driving utility forward with a proven record of achievement in top-level rugby, having previously performed strongly for Northampton Saints and Toulon.
But it didn’t happen for him in Wales.
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There were question marks over his fitness and suggestions he was battling injuries during his time at the Blues.
He couldn’t get going and after suffering a head knock against Saracens in the Champions Cup, he went back to his homeland and the following month the Blues agreed to a request to cancel his contract on compassionate grounds. In all, he made just seven appearances in Blues colours.
Manoa’s wife and five children had remained in California and the situation had caused the player difficulties.
Blues coach John Mulvihill said at the time: "Naturally we are very disappointed to lose a player of Samu's quality but we understand his situation.
"It's the right decision to release him from his contract on compassionate grounds.
"It is always challenging to adapt to a new environment, particularly when your family are on the other side of the world.”
The 22-cap US Eagle becomes the second headline capture for Major League rugby in a matter of days, with Mathieu Bastareaud announcing he will play for New York Rugby United on a season-long loan arrangement from Toulon.
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The signings will help boost the profile of MLR, which is a fresh attempt to establish a coherent domestic league in America, with deals negotiated with CBS Sports Network and ESPN+.
