But that's what the ACT franchise are planning to do as Cooper's Rebels head to GIO Stadium for an opening-round Australian derby.

The former Wallabies star's move south has dominated headlines after he spent his final year at the Queensland Reds exiled to club rugby by coach Brad Thorn.

But a rejuvenated Cooper will start at five-eighth in his Rebels debut, alongside former Reds teammate Will Genia.

Opposing No.10 Christian Lealiifano says the Brumbies won't place any extra attention on Cooper.

"Communication is key for us in having a strong system to be able to stop any threat at the line, not only Quade," the Brumbies captain said.

"We have to be focused all around the field, in attack and defence, so there hasn't been an extra focus on Quade himself."

The Rebels believe Cooper could be the missing link as they aim to play finals for the first time since entering the competition in 2011.

After just missing out on a maiden post-season appearance last year, optimism has been building around Dave Wessels' side and Lealiifano thinks that belief is deserved.

"They're a quality outfit and they've found their identity as well," he said.

"Adding in guys like Quade Cooper, who's first class, is only going to add strength to their squad."

Cooper won't be the only ex-Reds star to make his debut for a new club with prop James Slipper to start for the Brumbies.

The former Queensland skipper has pushed incumbent Wallabies loosehead prop Scott Sio to the bench to round out a strong Brumbies squad.

David Pocock and Allan Alaalatoa will start despite the Wallabies stars resting for the Brumbies' two trial wins, including a 52-38 victory over the Rebels last month.

While the Brumbies enter the match at full-strength, injured Wallabies Reece Hodge and Adam Coleman are at least a week away from playing for Melbourne.

Isi Naisarani will make his Rebels debut against his former club after being named at No.8.

The Rebels got the better of the Brumbies in two games last season, including a memorable victory in the nation's capital.

Australian Associated Press