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The Miami Sharks have completed the signing of Manuel Ardao. As reported in July, the new Major League Rugby (MLR) franchise was closing-in on Ardao and two other Uruguayans.
Aged 24, Ardao is a native of Montevideo. He is a product of Old Christians Club in the Carrasco neighborhood. He played for Uruguay u20’s in 2017 and 2018 and debuted for Uruguay against Fiji in 2018.
Uruguay was captained by Juan Manuel Gaminara at RWC 2019. Ardao was his understudy. He played as a replacement against Georgia in Kumagaya and started against Australia in Oita. Gaminara retired and Andrés Vilaseca replaced him as Los Teros‘ captain.
Vilaseca captained both Peñarol and Uruguay. He stopped leading the former when he moved to Vannes, France to play in the Pro D2. Ardao then replaced him as captain of the Uruguayan professional team.
Ardao is expected to be named on Uruguay’s roster for Rugby World Cup 2023. The 33-man roster will be unveiled at aim on Monday in Montevideo. Ardao’s inclusion is a formality as he captained Peñarol in Super Rugby Americas 2023. Peñarol won the title.
Two of Ardao’s teammates from Peñarol are also close to being confirmed as Miami Sharks. Flyhalf Felipe Etcheverry, and outside center or scrumhalf Tomás Inciarte also both have initial agreements to join the newest MLR team.
Introducing the new sensation of the Miami Sharks: Manuel Ardao ✨ Brace yourself for an impressive display of talent, seamless collaboration, and an abundance of thrilling moments on the pitch. Stay connected for an unforgettable adventure! 🔥 #GoSharks pic.twitter.com/2xAHzYU7tu
— Miami Sharks Rugby Club (@miasharksrugby) August 20, 2023
