Jürgen Klopp’s unsung defensive hero ends 16-year Anfield stay to accept sudden American ‘challenge’

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A lifelong Red prepares for a fresh start From an eager nine-year-old walking through the gates of the Kirkby Academy to a 25-year-old professional moving on to pastures new, Rhys Williams is officially closing the book on his Liverpool career. With his contract set to expire at the end of June, the towering centre half is already plotting his next move.

The Athletic Liverpool correspondent James Pearce reports: “I can confirm that Williams is currently in the United States on trial with Major League Soccer outfit New York Red Bulls. After tasting success as part of the FA Youth Cup-winning squad in 2019, his first team breakthrough arrived under former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in September 2020, debuting in a 7-2 Carabao Cup victory at Lincoln City.

It is easy to forget just how bleak things looked during that injury ravaged 2020-21 season, and without Williams who know regarded as a cult hero stepping up under immense pressure, Liverpool might well have missed out on crucial Champions League football. A move to the MLS with the New York Red Bulls feels like the perfect environment for him to rebuild, find consistency, and truly kickstart his career as a 25-year-old man.