Rugby Union Weekly
Sara, Kat Merchant & Siwan Lillicrap dissect England's victory over Wales at Ashton Gate.

Sara, Kat Merchant & Siwan Lillicrap dissect England's victory over Wales at Ashton Gate.

Didier Deschamps is praised for his mid-tournament tactical adjustments with France's elite squad, maximizing talent like Kylian Mbappe. He has successfully adapted formations, notably switching roles for Olise and Dembele, to create a more stable and threatening team.

Serena Williams makes her return to Wimbledon after a four-year absence, facing a much younger opponent. Despite personal and professional evolution, including a second daughter and co-founding an NWSL team, Williams views her presence on court as a success, embracing the familiar yet new environment.

Germany's national football team suffered an early World Cup exit, including a first-ever penalty shootout loss, sparking calls for head coach Julian Nagelsmann's removal. Despite Nagelsmann's refusal to quit, fans and media are increasingly speculating about Jurgen Klopp as a potential replacement, given his popularity and recent punditry.

Newcastle United is at a crossroads as top European clubs target key players like Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Gordon. Despite past successes and long-term ambitions, the club faces challenges retaining its stars due to financial disparities and player aspirations, raising questions about its future competitiveness.

Former England captain Wayne Rooney advocates for Kobbie Mainoo to start ahead of Elliot Anderson in England's World Cup last-32 match against DR Congo, citing Mainoo's ability in tight areas. Other pundits debate player selections for the upcoming game.

US-based group Cannae Holdings, through its Black Knight Rugby arm, has acquired a controlling stake in English rugby club Exeter Chiefs for approximately £25m. This marks the first rugby investment for Black Knight, which also holds stakes in football clubs Lorient and Auckland FC. Exeter's CEO Tony Rowe will remain in his role, expressing enthusiasm for the partnership.