Marco Bianchi 
Jac Morgan says his move to Gloucester has given him a new attacking threat, leading the Premiership in turnovers and adding ball‑carrying to his game. He will bring this form to Wales as they prepare to face Japan in the Nations Championship.
Ireland back‑row forward Jack Conan spoke about the positive impact of head coach Andy Farrell’s emphasis on open communication within the squad. He also confirmed he will miss the upcoming November Nations Championship fixtures after a shoulder injury suffered in Leinster’s Champions Cup victory over Clermont.
Six-time major winner Rory McIlroy said the LIV Golf experiment created a false economy and that professional golf needs a reset to become sustainable. Speaking before the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, he reflected on LIV’s collapse and its effect on the sport while aiming to win the Race to Dubai for a record‑equalling eighth time.
Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill has added Portsmouth striker Eoin Kenny to the senior squad for upcoming Nations League matches, dismissing any concerns about his Republic of Ireland family ties. Kenny, the son of former Republic manager Stephen Kenny, has impressed at under‑21 level and earned the call‑up despite limited club minutes.
Wales women’s team, under coach Rhian Wilkinson, will compete in Nations League A again next year, taking on Denmark, Italy and Iceland after earning promotion by winning Group B1. The fixtures are part of their preparation for a potential first World Cup finals appearance.
The FifPro Women’s World XI shortlist was released, sparking controversy as several high‑profile players were left out. Among the notable absentees was Manchester City striker Khadija Shaw, who finished third in the Ballon d’Or but did not make the 26‑player list. The article also highlights other surprising inclusions and omissions from the women’s football world.
Scotland manager Sebastien Pocognoli has named an extended 26‑man squad for the final Nations League fixtures, bringing back midfielder Scott McTominay after his heart procedure and giving Rangers loanee James Penrice his first senior call‑up. Several players are omitted due to injury or tactical decisions as Scotland chase points to stay clear of relegation and aim for a play‑off spot.
Cardiff City head coach Brian Barry-Murphy confirmed that Wales international forward Isaak Davies will miss at least four weeks with a hamstring injury, worsening the club’s injury crisis. The Bluebirds also face fitness concerns for several defenders and midfielders ahead of their next Championship match against West Ham United.
Leinster Rugby announced that Noel McNamara will succeed long‑time head coach Leo Cullen after the 2026‑27 season. McNamara, currently Bordeaux Begles’ attack coach, returns to the Irish province having previously held several coaching roles there. The move follows Cullen’s decision to step down after a trophy‑laden 12‑year tenure.
The Asian Football Confederation announced that the 2027 Asian Cup, originally set for January‑February 2027 in Saudi Arabia, will be postponed because of recent attacks on the country. New dates have been set for late December 2027 to January 2028 pending FIFA approval.