Here’s a bold prediction that might just shake up the rugby world: despite Ronan O’Gara’s La Rochelle hitting a rough patch, this could be the turning point that propels his coaching career to even greater heights. But here’s where it gets controversial—while many are quick to criticize La Rochelle’s recent struggles, England legend Ben Youngs argues that this adversity is exactly what O’Gara needs to evolve into a world-class international coach. Let’s dive in.
Ben Youngs, the retired England great and co-host of For The Love Of Rugby, believes Leinster’s inconsistency will spell trouble for La Rochelle in the Investec Champions Cup. Yet, he insists that the challenges O’Gara is currently facing will ultimately benefit the Irish coach. O’Gara, a former Munster and Ireland star, returns to the Aviva Stadium this Saturday with a La Rochelle side that’s a far cry from the team that dominated Leinster in back-to-back Champions Cup finals in 2022 and 2023. Those victories, particularly the 17-point comeback in 2023, were defining moments for O’Gara, who detailed the emotional rollercoaster in Touching Distance, a critically acclaimed book by Brendan Fanning that dissects Irish rugby’s battle with lofty expectations.
And this is the part most people miss—while La Rochelle’s recent form has been shaky, with just one win in seven away matches this season, Youngs argues that O’Gara’s credibility remains intact. Despite heavy losses to the Stormers and Toulouse, Youngs believes O’Gara’s track record and experience at Racing 92 and the Crusaders make him a coach in high demand. In fact, O’Gara’s name has been linked to the All Blacks’ assistant coach role under Scott Robertson, his former boss at the Crusaders. O’Gara’s contract with La Rochelle runs until 2027, but his international coaching ambitions seem inevitable.
Youngs predicts that O’Gara’s current struggles at La Rochelle will only strengthen his coaching prowess in the long run. ‘Ronan O’Gara’s team is vulnerable right now, especially with injuries,’ Youngs noted in his Planet Rugby column. ‘I don’t see them beating Leinster, but this adversity is natural and will make him a better coach.’ The return of Will Skelton, La Rochelle’s powerhouse forward, might boost their chances, but Youngs doubts it’ll be enough against a formidable Leinster side.
Here’s the controversial take—Youngs suggests that O’Gara’s ‘sticky patch’ isn’t a setback but a necessary step in his coaching evolution. ‘He’s dealt with injuries, personnel issues, and more,’ Youngs explained. ‘But his success speaks for itself. This phase will round him into an even better coach, and he’ll be leading an international team very soon.’
Switching to Leinster, Youngs challenges the popular narrative that they’re underperforming. Despite inconsistent form from their star players, Leinster has won seven consecutive matches across league and cup competitions. ‘They’re getting results, even when they’re not at their best,’ Youngs pointed out. ‘That’s a great position to be in. They’ll peak when it matters most—in the knockout stages.’
So, here’s the question for you: Do you agree that O’Gara’s struggles are a stepping stone to greatness, or is this a sign of deeper issues? And is Leinster’s current form a blessing in disguise? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
