Yuyu Hirakawa available for Bristol City Championship opener

Japanese forward Yuyu Hirakawa is expected to feature for Bristol City in their EFL Championship season opener against Millwall on August 15, 2026. After missing most of the pre-season due to injury, manager Michael Skubala confirmed that Hirakawa is available for selection, though he may not be fit to play the full 90 minutes.

Following a loan spell at Hull City where he contributed to their promotion, Hirakawa returns to Bristol City. Analysts suggest that a tactical shift under Skubala, who favors a 4-2-3-1 system, may provide the winger with more opportunities than in previous seasons when the club utilized different tactical setups.