California Legion Signs Gonzalo Bertranou
California Legion has signed Argentine scrum-half Gonzalo Bertranou ahead of the 2026 Major League Rugby season, adding proven international class and elite game management to the squad.
Bertranou arrives in California following an outstanding 2025 MLR campaign with Rugby FC LA, where he quickly established himself as one of the competition’s most influential players. Starting 15 of 16 matches, Bertranou scored six tries, controlled tempo from the base, and played a central role in guiding RFCLA to its first-ever postseason appearance.
His performances throughout the season earned widespread recognition, including MLR Back of the Year honors, selection to the All-MLR First XV, and Rugby FC LA’s Player of the Year award. Beyond the statistics, Bertranou consistently set the standard with his composure, accuracy, and leadership in high-pressure moments.
“I’m really excited and honored to have signed with the California Legion,” Bertranou said. “It’s an amazing club with a strong culture and big ambitions. There are incredible players here, great new faces joining the squad, and a world-class staff behind the scenes.”
At the international level, Bertranou brings a résumé few can match. Since making his test debut in 2015, he has earned more than 60 caps for Argentina and represented Los Pumas at two Rugby World Cups, in Japan in 2019 and France in 2023, where Argentina finished fourth. His career includes extended time in Super Rugby with the Jaguares, where he competed against the best in the southern hemisphere, as well as European experience with Benetton in Italy and Dragons RFC, with a short stint at Cardiff in the United Rugby Championship.
Bertranou’s game is defined by quick decision-making, sharp distribution, and an ability to manage territory and rhythm. Whether accelerating play or applying control late in matches, his influence at scrum-half has been consistent across competitions and continents.
“I can’t wait to give everything on the field, play my best rugby, and help the team push for the highest goals this season,” he added.
The signing adds a world-tested presence to the California Legion spine as the club continues building toward the 2026 season. With elite international experience and proven MLR success, Bertranou brings leadership, professionalism, and championship-level standards to the group.
