Munster forwards coach Alex Codling to leave for Top 14 

Codling said it was an "incredibly tough decision" to leave Munster

Alex Codling initially joined Munster as forwards coach consultant in November 2024. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Munster forwards coach Alex Codling will depart the province at the end of the season and move to the Top 14. 

The Englishman joined Munster as a forwards coach consultant in November 2024, initially double-jobbing while also working with the Ireland women's 15s team. That appointment was made just three days after Andi Kyriacou left as forwards coach. Codling took up the full-time Munster forwards coach job ahead of the 2025/26 season. 

“It was an incredibly tough decision to leave Munster as I have loved every minute of working with this special group of players," said the 52-year-old.

“I just wanted to give a big shout out to the incredible Red Army. Seeing thousands of you away at La Rochelle last year is something that I will treasure for the rest of my life. You really are the 16th man! I wish everyone associated with the club every success moving forward.”

Codling has been linked with Toulon. Last week, Cédric Béal - currently head of Toulon's academy - said Codling will be joining the club.

"The contours of the future staff have yet to be defined exactly," Beal told Var-Martin.

"Pierre [Mignoni] will do it. We have to meet with all the coaches. As for the forwards coaches, with Alex [Codling, who arrives from Munster], Mika [Ivaldi] and I, we will divide up our roles well."

Prior to working with Ireland, Codling had been Newcastle Falcons head coach and had also worked with the England men's team.

“Alex has an unparalleled passion for lineouts," said Munster head coach Clayton McMillan.

"This is reflected through his outstanding work ethic, high attention to detail, and strong connection to the players.

“We understand the significant sacrifices he has made over the last two seasons to help us grow at Munster, and whilst we will miss his influence, we wish him all the best in his exciting new chapter.”

Codling joins Mike Prendergast in leaving the Munster backroom team. The senior coach looks set to move to Bath ahead of next season.