Kleyn bids emotional Munster farewell
SPOTLIGHT: Springbok lock Jean Kleyn posted an emotional farewell message to the Munster faithful following 10 years at the Irish club.
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Second rower Jean Kleyn announced his departure from Munster on social media platform Instagram on Sunday.
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“After ten unforgettable years of wearing the No.4 [jersey], the time has come for me to say goodbye,” Kleyn said in an emotional farewell post.
“Munster has been so much more than a club to me — it has been a family, a home, and a place where I’ve grown both on and off the field.
“As a club, we’ve experienced incredible highs, painful lows, unforgettable victories, difficult defeats, and memories that I won’t ever forget.
“I’m grateful for every teammate, coach, staff member, and supporter who has been part of this journey and backed me all the way.
“Your friendship, loyalty and belief meant more than you’ll ever know.
“Leaving isn’t easy, but I will look back at these years with immense pride and gratitude.
“I will always be proud to have worn this jersey and represented this province.
“While this chapter comes to an end, the memories and friendships will last a lifetime. I will always remain a proud Munster man.
“Thank you for ten incredible years,” he concluded.
The World Cup winner will join English Prem side Gloucester for the 2026/27 season.
Speaking on the move, Kleyn said:
“I’m thrilled to be joining Gloucester next season.
“It’s a club with incredible history and a passionate fan base, and the vision shared with me really matched what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career.
“I can’t wait to get started, meet the supporters, and give everything I have for this team.”
Kleyn represented Ireland in 2019 through World Rugby’s residency rule before switching allegiance to his home country in 2023, earning seven Test caps and going on to win the World Cup that same year.
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