Ethan Williams is taking positive memories away with him from Manchester United’s pre-season tour.
After a dream goal in Manchester United’s win over Bournemouth in pre-season, Ethan Williams came crashing back down to earth in the next game.
Williams was an unused substitute in the 2-2 draw with Everton, with head coach Ruben Amorim tightening up his rotation.
Despite this, Williams has only positive memories from his first tour away with the first team, after missing out on the traveling squad to the USA in 2024.
Photo by KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/AFP via Getty ImagesEthan Williams happy with contribution
Ethan Williams’ statistics from pre-season for Manchester United to date are pretty impressive. Williams made the most of his game time, scoring in his only appearance.
Appearances: 1Goals: 1Minutes: 19
The teenage prospect posted a picture of his match shirt, along with a simple message: “Memorable experience.”
Ethan Williams is capable, and decision awaits
Last season during a loan at Cheltenham Town, Ethan Williams made an immediate impact. His coach at the time even backed him to make an impact for Manchester United’s first team.
Williams seized his chance by scoring in pre-season and showed that prediction was correct, and now Manchester United have a decision ahead.
United could keep Williams around, in regular circumstances he would have earned the right to stay, and play a part.
But with no European football in 2025/26, Manchester United’s squad is going to be rotated less frequently.
The game against Everton was an example, where Williams did not get off the bench, and this is before United sign a centre-forward.
Another loan move could be useful for Williams, allowing him to play regular football – but Manchester United have to choose his club wisely to maximise his experience.
His strike in pre-season will have lifted his confidence, and demonstrated his ability to play at a high level.