French forward Mickaël Goudemand has taken a bold step in his career, securing a trial opportunity with the Newcastle Knights ahead of the 2026 season. The 29-year-old, previously of the Catalans Dragons and the Leeds Rhinos, is aiming to earn his spot in Australia’s elite rugby league competition, the National Rugby League (NRL).

Career background

Goudemand’s rugby league journey has taken him from France to England and now to Australia. Born in Avignon, France, he rose through domestic ranks before signing with Catalans Dragons. At Catalans he firmly established himself over several seasons, registering more than 100 appearances in the Super League and proving his defensive credentials with high tackle counts. Catalans Dragons He also featured in their 2018 Challenge Cup victory and the 2021 Super League Grand Final.

After his time in Perpignan, Goudemand joined Leeds Rhinos ahead of the 2024 season, making 18 appearances before departing by mutual agreement. The Rhinos+1 In mid-2025 he moved to Australia, signing with the Group 9 club Junee Diesels based in New South Wales, a step that prefaced his trial with the Knights.

The trial with the Knights

According to reports, Goudemand has been invited to train with the Knights’ NSW Cup (reserve grade) side as part of a trial arrangement ahead of the 2026 season. Zero Tackle+1 The trial gives him a chance to impress in the Australian system and potentially secure a contract that could lead to a full NRL debut. The Newcastle club, looking to bolster their forward pack, have identified Goudemand’s experience and versatility as assets. Zero Tackle

He is reported to remain with the Knights’ second-string squad until at least March of 2026, although he also has a contingency plan: if the Knights trial does not lead to a top-tier contract, he is already linked with a deal to join the Macquarie Scorpions in the Newcastle Rugby League competition.

What this means for Goudemand

For Goudemand, this trial represents a significant opportunity and a major shift in his career trajectory. Moving from Super League in Europe to Australia’s rugby league environment offers a new challenge, both on and off the field. His experience with Catalans and Leeds gives him a platform, but adapting to the NRL’s physicality, pace and off-field culture will be key.

From a national team perspective, success in Australia could bolster his chances of representing France again at major tournaments such as the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

Challenges ahead

That said, the path won’t be easy. Competing in the NRL system demands peak fitness, consistency and resilience — plus an adjustment period away from Europe. There’s also the uncertainty inherent in trial deals: there’s no guarantee of elevation to the first-grade squad. Goudemand knows that he’ll need to stand out in training and matches to convert this chance into a contract.

Final word

In sum, Mickaël Goudemand’s trial with the Newcastle Knights marks a bold leap into the rugby league heartland of Australia. It reflects his ambition, the trust placed in his ability, and the growing cross-channel movement of players between Europe and the NRL. If successful, he could not only secure a spot in one of the world’s premier leagues but also give his international career with France a fresh boost.