Bok centre reveals burning desire to lift trophies with Munster

World Cup-winning centre Damian de Allende does not want to leave current club Munster without hoisting some silverware. 

De Allende announced earlier this year that he would be leaving Ireland at the conclusion of the current season, although his next destination is yet to be determined. 

However, despite the imminent move, the Springbok’s focus is still firmly on doing his best for Munster, who currently hold strong positions in both the URC and Champions Cup, making the possibility of winning titles very real. 

“It would be incredible,” de Allende said. “I obviously signed here to win a trophy but we’ll take it week by week. My main focus is just on this week. We have to get through this week to get to the semi-final. 

“I would obviously love to leave Munster with hopefully two trophies but we’ll focus on this week and let the rest take care of itself. 

“I want to leave here on a high but if that doesn’t happen that’s just the way things go. It would be unfortunate but I will cherish my time here. I’ve really loved it. 

“It was tough when I couldn’t enjoy Ireland properly when I first got here but as the weeks have gone on it’s been a lot better. 

“It’s been incredible to play in a full Thomond Park, it was exceptional. I wish I could have played in front of a crowd in a lot more events but that’s just the way life is at the moment. 

“Whatever happens, happens, but I will leave here with a big smile on my face with lots of happy memories that were made here in Munster.” 

The passion of the Munster fans is something which made a marked impression on de Allende. 

“I’ve never played at a club where I’ve gone to an away game and there’s been more supporters from the away team,” says de Allende. 

“When we played against Wasps and Exeter, it felt like there were more Munster fans there than the home fans so for me that was incredible. 

“It’s the first time I’ve seen something like that and to interact with the fans after those games, it’s always incredible. It’s nice to walk along the field and take pictures with fans at Thomond Park.” 

Asked for his thoughts on Graham Rowntree taking the reins from Johann van Graan at the club, de Allende said the following: 

“He’s great, I think he’s going to be exceptional for the club. 

“It won’t be much of a big difference because all the guys respect him and get on well with him, there’s a good relationship and a good understanding. 

“Obviously his goals might be a bit different – not different in the sense of what Munster want to achieve as a club, but his tactics might be a bit different. 

“The club is in good hands with Graham Rowntree in as head coach next year.”