Lisa Neumann Weighs Options After Leaving Harlequins: Future in Doubt
Wales wing Lisa Neumann is reflecting on her future following her departure from Harlequins this summer. After a challenging season where she made only one appearance for the Premiership Women's Rugby team, Neumann found more game time with Brython Thunder in the Celtic Challenge. The 32-year-old had aimed to make a significant impact in the 2026 Six Nations, but her aspirations were cut short when she suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in the opening match against Scotland. "I was gutted, it wasn't the best timing but I've had injuries before. You just have to go through the process, trust it and hope that you can come back stronger," Neumann stated. Neumann joined Harlequins in February 2024 and had a promising first season, scoring six tries in 22 appearances. However, her latest season did not meet expectations. "I would have loved to have stayed for the girls. This last year didn't go as well as I'd hoped. There were a lot of changes in the environment so I think it was a good decision to go." Currently, she has not signed with a new club, stating, "I've looked at all the offers and it's not just a financial decision. I have to think about quality of life." Neumann has made significant sacrifices for her rugby career, including enduring an eight-hour round trip from Manchester to Cardiff three times a week for training, and now from London. "Every single time I think I'm going to move closer, I'm going to make it easier. I don't know why I've just carried on doing it," she said. When asked about potentially following teammates Jasmine Joyce and Alisha Joyce back to Welsh clubs, Neumann acknowledged it as an option but noted that moving back home poses its challenges. "I played for Brython Thunder a bit last year and I did really love it. I don't feel like I'm afraid to make any mistakes. But right now moving back home is a difficult decision, I've set up my life in London and it's not easy to pack up."
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-08-18