Catalans Dragons have announced two new Super League deals, just days after sacking three players for misconduct.
The players were announced to have left club with a club statement: “Following a disciplinary process, the Catalans Dragons have decided to terminate the contracts of three of their Players with immediate effect. The players concerned are Siua Taukeiaho, Jayden Nikorima and Damel Diakhate.
“All Players were involved in an incident deemed to be highly unacceptable by the Club and contrary to the Club’s values.”
It has now been reported that the reason may have been that they attended a concert instead of going to training. Now, the side have confirmed two deals for players.
Catalans Dragons confirm two deals after sacking of trio
Credit: Imago Images
The Dragons have tied loose-forward Franck Maria down to a new three-year contract after impressing in his first seven Super League appearances – which earned him a callup to the French national side.
He said: “I am very happy to sign this contract with the Catalans Dragons.
I had the chance to make my debut in the Super League this year, and I am very proud of it, but this is just the beginning. I would like to thank the club and the staff for the trust they have placed in me, and I will continue to work hard to earn my place and help the team achieve its goals.
“I thank the club for giving me this opportunity.”
They have also handed a new contract to 19-year old Guillermo Aispuro-Bichet who can play in a variety of positions in the backs.
He has started to train with the first-team this season and will now be with the side until 2026.
After playing against England’s academy side this year, he was named man of the match.
Credit: Imago Images
He said: “First of all, I am very happy and proud to have signed a contract with the Catalans Dragons.
“Like many kids in our region, I have been passionate about rugby league since a young age. After having started at the XIII Catalan, I had the chance to join the reserve team St Estève XIII Catalan, and today, being part of the Dragons team is another part of my dream coming true.”
Head coach Steve McNamara added: “Guillermo is a player we have huge expectations for both now and in the future.
“He is an exciting prospect who already looks very comfortable training alongside senior super league players. Franck has worked so hard to earn a full-time contract and is a real success story for us so far.
“I feel he will continue to develop and improve given time and will feature prominently for the Dragons both now and in the future.”
