# Saracens: Gallagher PREM 2026-27 preview

> Saracens prepare for new era under Dr Brendan Venter after Mark McCall's exit.
- Title: Saracens: Gallagher PREM 2026-27 preview · Rugby World
- Summary: Saracens prepare for new era under Dr Brendan Venter after Mark McCall's exit. Saracens aim to reach play-offs for first time since 2024 with Dr Brendan…
- Keywords: gallagher prem, saracens, brendan venter, tomos williams, alfie barbeary, noah caluori, prem rugby, sports, Gallagher, PREM, 2026-27, preview
- Source: Rugby World — https://rugbyworld.com/news/gallagher-prem-2026-27-preview-saracens-185716
- Published: 2026-09-25T12:59:59+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: gallagher prem, saracens, brendan venter, tomos williams, alfie barbeary, noah caluori, prem rugby, sports
## Saracens post-McCall era
Saracens face uncertainty after Mark McCall's 17-year tenure as director of rugby ended with six PREM titles and three Champions Cups.
## Dr Brendan Venter joins Saracens
Dr Brendan Venter, who left his medical practice near Stellenbosch, will lead Saracens with a focus on being 'intense, physical' and hard to play against.

> We’re a good rugby side, intense, physical, that is Saracens, hard to play against. That’s my vision for the group, to be that all the time.
## Key signings for Saracens
Saracens bolstered by Alfie Barbeary from Bath Rugby and Tomos Williams from Gloucester Rugby.
## Alfie Barbeary's role
At 25, Alfie Barbeary, a younger and less imposing model, aims to replace Tom Willis with explosive power and leg drive.
## Noah Caluori's potential
Teenager Noah Caluori, a 6ft 4in winger with a vertical leap, scored five tries in his first PREM start last season.
## Saracens 2026-27 prediction
Saracens expected to reach top four with refreshed Maro Itoje and key signings.
## Key takeaway

Saracens aim to reach play-offs for first time since 2024 with Dr Brendan Venter as director of rugby and key signings like Alfie Barbeary and Tomos Williams.