Marco Bianchi 
Former France midfielder Paul Pogba has left AS Monaco after the club terminated his contract a year early. Pogba, who made six appearances last season, thanked the club while Monaco’s CEO Thiago Scuro wished him well and noted the partnership did not meet its objectives.
World number one Aryna Sabalenka cruised past Wang Xinyu in 54 minutes to reach the Cincinnati Open fourth round, while Daniil Medvedev was upset by Brandon Nakashima after missing three match points and losing his temper. The results keep Sabalenka on track for a potential US Open title defense and maintain pressure on her rivals for the world No.1 ranking.
Northern Ireland goalkeeper Jackie Burns, the national team’s number one, has joined newly‑promoted Burnley Women in the Women’s Super League 2. While preparing for life after football, she says she wants to work in player‑care roles to help future players settle into clubs.
During the qualifying session for the 2026 Manx Grand Prix, a crash involving two riders resulted in one competitor sustaining fatal injuries. The incident caused a red flag and the road between Ramsey Bus Station and Lheaney Road was closed for several hours.
Barcelona announced the signing of 30‑year‑old midfielder Rodri from Manchester City for a reported £65 million. The Ballon d’Or winner has agreed a four‑year deal at the Camp Nou, returning to Spanish football after a stint at Atletico Madrid. The transfer follows a rejected £38.5 million offer and ends Real Madrid’s interest.
Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott is on trial at Glasgow’s High Court facing child sex abuse charges dating from 1993 to 2010. He denies the allegations, while the prosecution presents testimony from a female witness describing inappropriate behavior.
The Scottish League Cup quarter‑finals have been scheduled, with Rangers set to host Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday 13 September. The Old Firm clash follows previous cup meetings where Celtic won on penalties. The article also lists the other quarter‑final fixtures.
Cliftonville FC members approved a £3 million takeover by the Toronto Investment Group, with 81% voting in favour at an Extraordinary General Meeting. The deal, backed by investors Drew Green, John Muffolini, Ron Davidson and Conor Devine, will see the Canadian consortium provide transfer funds, shift the club to a full‑time model and propose stadium redevelopment.
Wales centre Eddie James has agreed a new contract extension with the Scarlets, committing his future to the region ahead of the 2026-27 season. The 24‑year‑old, a regular in the Wales squad, chose to stay with his home club despite having a year left on his previous deal. The club also announced several new signings as part of its squad rebuild.
Two‑time Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard suffered a broken collarbone on stage 15 of the 2026 Tour, forcing him to undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the season, including the World Championships. Team officials said the decision also reflects the heavy race schedule he has already completed this year.