Exeter Chiefs release Michele Campagnaro from his contract

Italy will have the services of Michele Campagnaro for their autumn international opener against Ireland in Chicago after Exeter Chiefs has granted a release from his contract.

This means the 25-year-old will make his final appearance for the club in the Premiership Rugby Cup game against Newcastle Falcons this weekend before departing for his national duty on 31st October.

Campagnaro joined Exeter Chiefs from Benetton Treviso in 2015 and has made 27 first-team appearances scoring nine tries in it. He was also part of matchday 23 squad of the Sandy Park outfit when they lifted the Premiership title for the first time during the 2016/17 season.

“My time in Exeter is coming to an end. It’s been a privilege and an honour for me to be part of this team," said Campagnaro, who will be captaining Italy for the first time when they face Ireland.

“It has been an incredible journey and I have loved every single moment of it. I will never forget the Chiefs family.

“I want to say thank-you to the club and the supporters as you have made my time here so enjoyable and full of good memories. A special thanks to my team-mates for always looking after me.

“I love you guys and I wish you all the best for the future. Now, it’s a time for a new challenge, which I am looking forward to".