Rees-Zammit Inspired by Manchester United’s Revival
Louis Rees-Zammit, who previously played for Gloucester before joining Bristol, is optimistic about a turnaround in Wales' Six Nations fortunes, drawing motivation from the resurgence of his favorite football club, Manchester United.
The 25-year-old full-back is set to start for Wales against Scotland in Cardiff on Saturday at 16:40 GMT, aiming to secure Wales' first Six Nations victory since March 2023.
Wales have endured a challenging period with 13 consecutive defeats in the tournament and face the prospect of finishing last for the third consecutive year.
However, as a devoted Manchester United supporter, Rees-Zammit finds encouragement in the football team’s recent improvement under caretaker manager Michael Carrick. The Red Devils have accumulated 13 points from five matches, including wins against title contenders Manchester City and Arsenal.
"I'm loving it," said Rees-Zammit. "Carrick has come in and somehow the players have decided to play proper football again.
"My love for Man United is always there. The turnaround has been good."
Wales Face a Tough Challenge Against Scotland
Wales face a more difficult challenge in replicating such a revival, having won only two of their last 24 matches, both victories coming against Japan.
Scotland arrive at the Principality Stadium following a victory over England and are eager to set up a title-deciding match against France at Murrayfield.
Despite heavy losses to England and France, Wales coach Steve Tandy’s squad remains determined. Rees-Zammit emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence.
"We've got to keep the mood high," he said. "Obviously, it's been two tough weeks, but the second you put your head down, it crumbles.
"Everyone has their heads held high. We've got a job to do."
Match Details and Broadcast Information
Wales v Scotland, Principality Stadium
Saturday, 21 February at 16:40 GMT
Watch, listen and follow on BBC One, , website and app
Rees-Zammit’s Rugby Journey and Current Form
Rees-Zammit returned to rugby after attempting to enter the NFL last summer. Since Steve Tandy took charge, he has started five of six matches, missing only the fixture against South Africa due to unavailability.
The full-back has experienced success with Bristol, who currently sit third in the Premiership and have progressed to the last 16 of the Champions Cup, but his international record includes just one narrow win against Japan.
Before his NFL attempt, Rees-Zammit won 17 of his first 32 international caps but has returned to a Wales team facing different challenges.
"No regrets," he said. "It was an amazing experience over there but I missed playing rugby and playing for my country.
"I love being back in camp and around the boys again, getting stuck back into a Six Nations.
"It's obviously been a tough couple years for Welsh rugby, but we're trying to do everything we can to get fans off their chairs and play exciting rugby.
"Obviously, it doesn't happen overnight but we're working really hard behind the scenes to make that work. It will come."
Rees-Zammit will be hoping to help Wales cause an upset against Scotland before watching Manchester United attempt to extend their unbeaten streak at Everton on Monday.
