Former England prop Mako Vunipola has begun planning for his retirement from playing by venturing into coaching at Leicester Tigers. The 35-year-old is currently juggling his playing responsibilities with a coaching position for the club's Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) side.
Vunipola put his plans to retire on hold this season, opting to return to English rugby with Leicester after two years playing in France with Vannes. He views this move as a way to prepare for the end of his playing career, which includes four Premiership titles and three European Champions Cup winners' medals.
Vunipola stated, "The rugby career is very short and it's time for me to start looking for what life looks like after rugby." He added that when Leicester discussed him joining the team, he expressed his desire to transition into coaching, and the club has supported him in this process.
While focusing on his coaching development, Vunipola maintains that his main priority is performing for the Tigers on the pitch. He was a significant summer signing and has made six appearances across all competitions for a Leicester side that is currently leading the early Prem table.