“Been a long road back”: Ex-United star shares his emotional reaction to long-awaited return to football

Hull City have confirmed the signing of former Manchester United defender Brandon Williams, bringing his lengthy spell away from football to an end.

Williams’ struggles

Williams has not enjoyed the best of times since United released him at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

He came through the ranks at United and broke into the first team, making 51 appearances before his departure. 24 of these came in the Premier League.

During his time at Old Trafford, Williams had loan spells at Norwich City and Ipswich Town.

Earlier this year, he spoke candidly about his struggles with mental health and time away from football, admitting that he had distanced himself from family and friends and, at times, found it difficult to even leave his home.

Williams was also given a suspended jail sentence after being involved in a 99mph car crash. He admitted to charges of driving dangerously and without insurance.

In July, it emerged that Hull had handed Williams a trial, giving him the opportunity to present club boss Sergej Jakirovic during pre-season.

It was later revealed that Hull had been impressed with his application and were seriously considering offering him a contract.

The Championship Club announced his signing on Friday.

Hull sign Williams

Hull issued a statement confirming that Williams had put pen to paper on a one-year contract, with a club option of a further 12 months.

The comeback kid.#hcafc pic.twitter.com/1zDiN1M4QS

— Hull City (@HullCity) August 15, 2025

Reacting to the development, Williams said, “It feels good to be back in the team environment and back on the pitch. Everyone has been very welcoming. It’s been a good few weeks but I’m just happy I’m here now and can focus on the football.”

“I had a couple of very honest meetings with the manager. We know it’s going to be a process to get fully back up to speed, having that time out.”

“It had been 20 months since I played or was involved with a team.”

“I appreciated the manager’s honesty. Now, it’s down to me to work hard and get as many games as I can.”

He added, “It was very difficult (taking a break from football) – mentally and physically. It’s been a long road back, but probably something I needed. Now, I’m back here a different person.”

“I’ve grown up a lot and I’m ready to just focus on the football. I’ve missed it. I’m hungry, I’m fiery. I know what quality I can bring to the team. As soon as I get back to that, I’m sure I’ll be an asset to the team.”

“I’ve put in the work and gained the trust of the manager, the people above him and the coaching staff. Now, I’ve got to show it to the fans and my teammates to prove I’m here to work hard and help the team get results.”

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