Zach Mercer, the dynamic back-rower, is back in the Top 14 with Toulon after a stint with Gloucester, drawing inspiration from the iconic Jonny Wilkinson. Mercer, a potent force in Montpellier's 2022 Top 14 victory, initially left France for a Premiership return aimed at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. However, the coaching switch from Eddie Jones to Steve Borthwick left him in the cold, prompting his return to France.
With the new 2025/26 season kicking off, Mercer shared his thoughts with Var-Matin, reflecting on his journey and his aspirations at Toulon. Mercer highlighted the profound impact Wilkinson’s legacy at Toulon had on him, expressing a deep-set ambition to chase similar heights. "When you are English, wearing this (Toulon) jersey is never trivial," Mercer noted, acknowledging the weight of expectation and history tied to the club.
"Because Toulon, for an Englishman, rhymes with Jonny, right? Well, I’m lucid. If I accomplish even half of what Jonny has achieved here, that will already be extraordinary. Me, I want to win the Brennus and the Champions Cup."
Mercer also delved into his recovery from a serious knee injury, explaining the strategic approach taken with Toulon’s medical team to ensure his readiness for the season. "I arrived the first week of July. It was a deal with the medical staff. We wanted to observe my knee a little with the physios, to be sure that when I resumed training at the end of July, I would be at 100 per cent," he explained.
The injury, while a setback, provided Mercer with a rare opportunity for personal rejuvenation and family time. "I feel like I have been renewed in my mind, in my body... It has allowed me to spend precious time with my children, which would never have been possible without my injury. I was at home and I saw them grow up much more than I could have imagined. It was very special. You know, things happen for a reason," Mercer reflected.
On the topic of his overlooked status by England’s selectors post-Jones, Mercer was candid, suggesting a mismatch in expectations might have played a role. "Perhaps my face didn’t appeal to them? Or simply that my profile wasn’t what they expected? In any case, whatever, it probably wasn’t my story. England has very good back rows, that’s how it is," he stated, showing a pragmatic view towards his national team prospects.