Former Manchester United defender Brandon Williams has signed for League Two outfit Rotherham United, ending a nightmare spell away from professional football.
Williams returns
Williams has been without a club since he was released by Hull City in February.
The player has encountered difficult times in recent years. Having progressed through the ranks at United, he departed as a free agent in the summer of 2024.
He was without a club for over a year following his Old Trafford exit and eventually joined Hull City.
Williams was handed a 14-month suspended prison sentence in May 2025 after a near 100-mph car crash. He was banned for three years and ordered to undertake 180 hours of unpaid community service.
The 26-year-old has been notably open regarding his battle with mental health and depression. Following an extended trial period with Rotherham, the League Two club have confirmed that he has signed a short-term deal.
A Rotherham statement reads, “Rotherham United are delighted to confirm that defender Brandon Williams has penned a short-term deal with the club until 23rd January 2027.” “The 26-year-old officially joins the Millers having worked hard throughout pre-season and into late October at the club’s Roundwood training base, where he has proven his fitness to Steve McClaren, Alex Bruce and the coaching staff.”
“Williams will wear the number 33 shirt for the Millers.” “Everyone at Rotherham United would like to officially welcome Brandon to AESSEAL New York Stadium and wish him all the best for his time with us in South Yorkshire.”
Welcome, Bran! 🤝
#RUFC https://t.co/ya6u5CkZ1o
— Rotherham United (@RotherhamUnited) October 23, 2026
Bruce’s remarks
Rotherham boss Alex Bruce told BBC Radio Sheffield, “He deserves the contract. He’s worked really hard with us since pre-season, has shown a great attitude every day and an appetite and hunger just to play.”
“He’s had a tough few years. Not that you want to give contracts out willy-nilly, but when someone has showed the appetite, desire and hunger to come in every day and not get paid, like he has done.”
“And let’s not lose sight of where he’s been and what kind of career he has had – I’m really pleased to give him the opportunity to give his career a kick-start.”
“He looks a hell of a lot better than he did when he first arrived for pre-season. Let’s hope he can kick on and be an asset for the football club.”
Williams made 51 appearances for United.
Feature image Nathan Stirk via Getty Images
