Another talented Manchester United youngster has been sent out on loan to gain experience.
A stop-start season at academy level for Ethan Williams is getting a new flavour, the first loan spell of his career.
Manchester United have announced Williams has joined League Two side Cheltenham Town.
It follows Ethan Ennis’ exit to Doncaster Rovers in the same division, while Joe Hugill is heading out on loan again to Carlisle United.
- READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfer deals for January 2025, ins, outs, loan moves, deadline date
Cheltenham boss on Ethan Williams
Cheltenham Town are 13th in League Two and manager Michael Flynn is excited to get the deal done, explaining that there was heavy competition for Ethan Williams’ signature.
Flynn told their club website: “Ethan is a very talented player and he comes here now to add that bit of quality in the final third.
“There was a lot of interest in him so I’m really glad that we got it over the line.
“He’s a player that makes the keeper work when he gets into the final third, I’m excited to be working with him.”
Ethan Williams on loan spell
Ethan Williams has already trained with his new team and is feeling settled, ahead of their fixture on January 17 with Harrogate Town.
Williams said: “I’m really proud. I really enjoyed my first day here and now I can’t wait to start playing games and get minutes under my belt.
“I always look to offer goals, assists and hard work. That fits the Club’s repertoire as the manager has alluded to me so hopefully I can do that.
“Personally I’m really looking forward to the experience.”
Ethan Williams 2024/25 season so far
Ethan Williams was a key contributor at academy level in 2023/24, helping the under-18s to winning three trophies.
He also scored at under-21 level, ahead of stepping up in 2024/25, netting 15 goals in all competitions.
Williams 2024/25 began by featuring in pre-season against Rosenborg – but he was unlucky not to make the cut to go on the USA tour.
The 19-year-old suffered a further blow when he was shown a straight red card in the first game of the under-21 season, picking up a three-game suspension.
Williams has made contributions, scoring four goals and providing two assists at under-21 level since, which has included the UEFA Youth League.
But after a pause in the academy season, Williams is clearly raring to get playing again, and the loan spell is perfect for game time, if he can prove he deserves to be a regular contributor.
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