Brandon Williams has left Rotherham United after the club decided against offering the defender a contract. The 25-year-old former Manchester United left-back had been on trial at the AESSEAL New York Stadium since late June, as reported by the Rotherham Advertiser this week. Williams featured in seven pre-season friendlies but has now departed to train elsewhere as he seeks a new club.
Rotherham are preparing for life in League Two after a difficult 2025 campaign. They finished 23rd in League One with 37 points from 42 games, a record of nine wins, ten draws and 23 losses. Their final five matches yielded a form of LLLDL, and they ended the season 56 points behind champions Lincoln City, having scored 36 goals and conceded 65.
Why did Rotherham not sign Brandon Williams?
Head coach Alex Bruce had advised Williams earlier this month to explore opportunities away from Rotherham. Bruce explained his reasoning in a conversation with the player. "I've had a conversation with Brandon," Bruce said. "If there's anything out there for him in terms of someone being desperate for him then of course he's got to go and explore it." The club's decision reflects other recruitment priorities in the final stages of the transfer window. Rotherham want to bring in another striker, a midfielder, and a wide player, having already made 11 summer signings. You can view the full list of new arrivals on the club's squad page.
Williams remained with the Millers after their League Two season began, training with the group until late last week. His association with the club lasted approximately two months. He arrived as a free agent following his departure from Hull City at the start of this year, looking to restart his professional career after well-publicised off-field troubles over the last three years. Rotherham provided him with a platform to regain full fitness and improve his chances of finding a new team.
What is Brandon Williams' background?
The defender came through the academy at Manchester United's Old Trafford base. He made more than 50 first-team appearances for the Premier League giants before his career trajectory changed. His spell at Rotherham represented a significant step in his attempt to return to the professional game. Williams is now a free agent once more and is actively seeking a new club for the 2026-27 season.
What are Rotherham's next moves?
With Williams' trial concluded, the club's focus shifts squarely to their remaining transfer targets. The need for additional firepower is clear after a season where they struggled in front of goal. Supporters can track the club's progress and upcoming matches on our fixtures page. The recruitment team is working to strengthen the group that will aim for promotion from League Two, and the current league standings from last season serve as a stark reminder of the task ahead. Bruce and his staff will be hoping their final additions can help turn around the club's fortunes after a relegation season.
