Ma'a Nonu relishing Toulon adventure

  • 24/11/2015
Ma'a Nonu (Getty Images)
Ma'a Nonu (Getty Images)

Ma'a Nonu's about to begin his big French adventure and he already has his sights on silverware.

The former All Blacks midfielder's arrived in Toulon, where he'll spend at least the next two years with the club, and is already feeling good about his move.

"I want to thank the club and especially (president) Mourad Boudjellal for this opportunity and I'm looking forward to playing my rugby here," Nonu said at his official unveiling with the European Champions.

"They've won the championship three years in row, a lot of good players I've played against are playing here and I'm looking forward to playing alongside them.

"With the success of this club, everyone wants to beat Toulon and the purpose for this club is to win again. I'm here to try my best for this club and I want to achieve things here as well.

"I come here for a new adventure, this is my home now and I will give my all for Toulon."

The 103-Test back joins a long list of stars at the Stade Mayol, including another recent arrival in Wallabies playmaker Quade Cooper.

Australia's Matt Giteau, a long-time adversary and now possible midfield partner for Nonu, will be another familiar face, while several All Blacks have made the move in the past.

The 33-year-old follows in the footsteps of several All Blacks, who spoke highly of the club.

"I have a very close relationship with Tana Umaga, who was here coaching and playing, Sonny Bill (Williams), Chris Masoe I know well, and I spoke to Matt Giteau after the Rugby World Cup final.

"They had lots to say about Toulon - the people are really nice and it's the place to play rugby, the fans are mad about rugby and it's a really nice lifestyle for the family."

"I've watched the Top 14 over the years and it's a great competition, a great style of rugby - similar to New Zealand footy - really passionate fans and one of the best competitions in the world."

Nonu will compete with Giteau and the French international pairing of Maxime Mermoz and Mathieu Bastareaud for playing time.

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