Former England scrum-half Danny Care expressed his disappointment with the leadership at Saracens, stating that "some of the powers that be" have "let the players down" following a shaky start to the season.

After a thrilling 40-38 victory against Leicester in the opening weekend, Saracens suffered a 21-17 defeat at home to Sale, overshadowed by controversy surrounding returning director of rugby Brendan Venter. Venter's refusal to engage in media obligations raised eyebrows, with speculation suggesting his title had been humorously altered to 'head of rugby culture and wine consultant.' However, the club clarified that he is now the head of culture and technical director.

Care voiced his concerns on the BBC's Rugby Union Weekly podcast, emphasizing that the players are under unnecessary pressure due to off-field antics, stating:

They just want to play. Some of the powers that be at the top have let the players down.

New chief executive Ed Coetzee confirmed Venter's role includes significant media duties. Venter clarified his position, asserting that he refused the director of rugby title as he wanted to distance himself from other club sectors, including the academy and women's section. He remarked that the wine consultant reference was not a media joke, but part of the team's theme for the year, focusing on blending and cohesion.

Despite recent positive developments at Saracens, Care noted that the distractions surrounding Venter's role seem to have negatively affected the team's performance on the pitch, stating:

It looked flat. It looked quiet. I don't blame the players. I blame the management for that.

As the season progresses, Care's remarks highlight a growing tension between Saracens' management and its players, raising questions about the club's focus and direction.