Released Liverpool player goes on trial at new club

Liverpool defender Rhys Williams is reportedly trialling with the New York Bulls, ahead of his release from Anfield.

The Reds recently announced that the defender will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of June.

Getty

An academy graduate, Williams has been on the club’s books since under-10 level, and signed his first professional contract in 2019.

The centre-back was part of Liverpool‘s FA Youth Cup-winning squad in 2019 and made his debut under Jurgen Klopp a year later.

He has since gone on to make 19 senior appearances, all of which came in the 2020/21 season, before a string of loans away followed.

Since 2021, Williams has had spells at Swansea, Blackpool, Aberdeen and Port Vale, and spent the 2024/25 campaign at Morecambe in League Two.

The 25-year-old remained at Anfield at the recently-ended season, but featured only for the Reds’ Under-21s side, making three appearances in the EFL Trophy.

And after his departure from Merseyside was confirmed last month, Williams has wasted no time in looking for a new club.

According to the Athletic’s Liverpool reporter James Pearce, the former England youth international is currently on trial with MLS outfit the New York Red Bulls.

The journalist wrote on X: “Liverpool defender Rhys Williams, who will officially leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June, is currently on trial at New York Red Bulls.

“Great opportunity for him to impress as he seeks a new challenge this summer.”

New York Red Bulls compete in the MLS Eastern Conference, and currently sit fifth in the league in standings.

getty

Getty

The US top-flight is currently paused due to the World Cup, with play resuming on the weekend of July 16-17.

End of an era

News of Williams’ trial in the United States comes after he bid an emotional farewell to Liverpool in May.

After the club confirmed his departure, the academy graduate took to social media to thank the club for his 15 years on Merseyside.

He wrote: “From signing as a nine-year-old boy to leaving as a 25-year-old man, this club has let me fulfil things that dreams are made of.

“It’s been an honour to wear this shirt, rub shoulders with legends and play for the greatest set of fans in the world.

“Thank you to all the players, staff and everyone who’s had a part to play along the way.

Getty

“I will be forever grateful to have represented this club. Thank you, Liverpool. YNWA.”

In a club statement, Liverpool said: “Everybody at LFC would like to thank Rhys for his contribution and wish him well for the future.”

Williams’ departure means he will not be given a chance to prove himself under new Reds boss Andoni Iraola, who has been announced as Arne Slot’s successor following his sacking in May.