Brandon Williams ready for return after mental health battle post-Manchester United

Brandon Williams has opened up about the emotional toll of leaving Manchester United, the club where he rose through the ranks from academy prospect to first-team regular.

The 24-year-old made his senior debut in 2019 and went on to make 21 Premier League appearances for the Red Devils. He had loan spells at Norwich City in 2021 and Ipswich Town during the 2023/24 season before being released last summer when his contract expired.

Following his departure from Old Trafford, Williams found himself struggling both personally and professionally. In August 2023, he was caught driving at 99mph and later pleaded guilty to the charge.

He also admitted to being behind the wheel without valid third-party insurance. His Audi A3 struck a Ford Fiesta before crashing into the central reservation, and he now faces a potential prison sentence of up to two years, with a court date set for May 9.

Speaking candidly on Ben Foster's Fozcast podcast, Williams shared how difficult life had become after leaving the club he had called home for so long.

"I was literally just staying in bed, he [unknown] used to turn up at like nine o'clock or something at my bedside. Trying to do something like 'let's go on a walk, let's go for a coffee'."

When asked how bad it got, he replied: "Yeah, it's dark." The full-back continued: "It hurts me watching football now because I just want to be there, I just want to play. I miss being in a team, I miss being on the coach, I just think it's that thing where it gets too much for somebody sometimes. Maybe I needed that break, just take everything in to reset."

Despite a potential prison sentence looming, Williams is determined to return to professional football but has admitted that life in the spotlight since breaking through at Manchester United took a toll on his mental health.

The full-back revealed he struggled to cope with the pressures that came with sudden fame. Despite seeking support from club psychologist Mick Farrell, Williams held back from fully opening up, worried that being vulnerable might lead to judgement within the club.

Now 24, the former England Under-21 international feels that time away from the game has given him the space to regroup. With his mindset reset, he’s targeting a return to the pitch next season.

"I want to have that feeling again of winning and being around the changing room environment," Williams said.

"I've had loads of teams trying to get me out - America, Europe and England - but I haven't been ready. I want to go somewhere 100% focused and kick on.

"I would like to experience that different culture. I'm only 24 so I could do three or four years abroad. Definitely Europe at a good club or an upcoming club."