From Left to Right: UAR President Carlos Araujo, Juan Martin Leguizamon & UAR Secretary Fernando Rizzi

Juan Manuel Leguizamon is set to return to his homeland to represent Argentina’s new Super Rugby franchise after a decade in Europe.

The veteran, who has represented London Irish, Stade Francais and Lyon, signed his contract on Tuesday in the presence of UAR President, Carlos Araujo and Secretary of the Union, Fernando Rizzi.

“This is another important day for Argentine rugby,” Araujo said.

“Juan Manuel has been a strength of the Pumas and 1 of the pillars of a process that has been underway for years and that will peak in 2016 with the inclusion of Argentina in the Super Rugby competition.

“For these reasons, it is remarkable and very important gesture for ‘Legui’ to return home and sign his contract with the UAR, neither more nor less a further demonstration its enormous commitment to the Argentine rugby.”

Leguizamon expressed his enthusiasm for this decision and its future with the Argentine rugby.

“The priority was always to play for the Pumas and when it appeared the 1st idea of the franchise from then drove me crazy to be a part. Therefore, there were many things that made ​​this decision easy. The project is amazing and I could not wait to be part of this. To play Super Rugby is extraordinary and be part of it has a lot to do with my decision.”

Leguizamon’s deal runs from January 2016 until at least the end of the 2017 season.

Juan Manuel Leguizamon