This is one of the big coups of the Béarn transfer window. Out of contract, Théo Attissogbe has chosen to continue the adventure with Section Paloise, who confirmed his extension until 2029 on Monday on their social media. At 21, one of the most eye-catching wing-cum-full-backs in Top 14 and now a France international is tying his future to the club that made his name.

A key man Pau did not want to let slip away

Signed in 2022 after coming through at Stade Montois, Théo Attissogbe has in a few seasons become one of the faces of Section Paloise, and one of the best players in his position in Top 14. A U20 world champion in 2023, the 21-year-old wing and full-back is coming off a season that brought five caps with France, and another summer camp to prepare for the Nations Championship. In other words, a hugely coveted profile, one Pau have managed to secure for the long term.

The numbers behind a meteoric rise

Our data tell the whole story of his express journey. Thrown in at the deep end in 2023-2024, he played the whole Top 14 season, 24 matches, all as a starter, and 6 tries, at just 19. He has confirmed that promise since: 19 matches and 5 tries in 2024-2025, then 12 matches and 4 tries in 2025-2026, a season cut short by his international call-ups. In all, already 55 Top 14 matches and 15 tries before he has even turned 22.

The most striking thing lies elsewhere: in the blue shirt this season, the wing-cum-full-back scored five tries in five caps. A ratio of a try a match that sums up the profile of a finisher already established at the highest level, and explains why Pau were so keen to keep him.

The Section tie down their gems

The extension is part of a genuine underlying trend at Pau. At the start of the season, another 2023 U20 world champion, Émilien Gailleton, had already signed until 2029. By keeping two of their biggest talents despite the interest, the Section are sending a clear message: the Béarn club are no longer content just to develop players, they keep them. Enough to build an ambitious project around a golden generation.