Marco Bianchi 
Denmark international Christian Eriksen has left German club VfL Wolfsburg by mutual consent, ending a contract that was due to run until June 2027. The 34‑year‑old midfielder, who has not played since June, chose to return to Denmark to be close to his family.
Ulster Rugby head coach Richie Murphy confirmed that centre James Hume will be sidelined for several weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury in training ahead of the URC opener against Edinburgh. The loss compounds existing midfield injuries, leaving Murphy with limited options as the team prepares for the new season.
The Football Association has charged Cardiff City defender Krystian Bielik with misconduct after an altercation with a Portsmouth fan during the club’s 2-0 Championship loss at Fratton Park. Hampshire Police have concluded their investigation, closing the case with an out‑of‑court disposal and an apology from the player. Bielik has until 25 September to respond to the FA charge.
Wales’ women’s team will be without scrum-half Seren Lockwood for their upcoming test against the United States after she was withdrawn following a head injury in the win over South Africa. Coach Sean Lynn said the HIA protocol is essential and the side will adjust with Lleucu George at 10 and Keira Bevan at 9.
Scotland women’s national team have named a 26‑player squad for the first round of the World Cup qualifying play‑offs, bringing back versatile forward Sam Kerr and Newcastle striker Martha Thomas after long absences. Coach Melissa Andreatta highlighted Kerr’s ability to play multiple positions as a key asset as the side prepares for matches in the Czech Republic and at St Mirren Park.
Italy, the three‑time defending Davis Cup champions, are set to compete in the 2026 Finals in Bologna. Captain Filippo Volandri affirmed that Jannik Sinner, who missed the 2025 triumph to recover from a knee injury, is on a training program and is expected to be ready for the November event. The interview also touched on the potential participation of rivals Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev.
Paddy Kelly, Barnsley’s vice‑captain, reflects on a breakthrough season that saw him earn his first senior cap and score against France. He is eager to continue his development as Northern Ireland embark on a new UEFA Nations League schedule, hoping to become a regular in Michael O’Neill’s squad.
Serena Williams’ former coach Rennae Stubbs discussed the 2026 season and predicted that Aryna Sabalenka is the favorite to capture a Grand Slam title in 2027, with Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek close behind. She also critiqued Jessica Pegula’s serve, suggesting it limits her chances of winning a major.
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney downplayed suggestions that FIFA is planning major reforms, describing the external review as focused on strategic projects. He also reiterated that the Welsh association will not back Gianni Infantino’s bid for a fourth term as FIFA president.
Marie Bouzkova edged out Sonay Kartal in a close first‑singles match, securing a 1‑0 advantage for the Czech Republic over Great Britain in the Billie Jean King Cup quarter‑finals. The win puts the Czech side in a strong position to advance further in the competition.