Manchester United youngster Ethan Williams leaves Old Trafford this summer, having completed a permanent move to Peterborough United. The 20-year-old winger has signed a long-term contract with the EFL League One side after the clubs agreed a “sizeable” undisclosed fee. Williams leaves Man United without making a senior competitive start, but his recent involvement in pre-season offered a glimpse of his potential. The Peterborough move now provides the academy graduate with an opportunity to establish himself in senior football.
Ethan Williams Joins Peterborough On Long-Term Contract
Peterborough have assigned Williams the No.10 role following Abraham Odoh’s departure for Salford. The young winger arrives after playing for Manchester United during their pre-season campaign, appearing against Wrexham, Rosenborg and Atletico Madrid.
Williams scored in United’s 5-0 victory over Rosenborg in Trondheim last month, but was subsequently left out against Paris Saint-Germain and Leeds as senior players returned after their post-World Cup breaks.
A product of the Manchester United academy, Williams joined the club from Rochdale in 2019. He previously had a loan spell at Cheltenham Town before spending last season with Scottish Premiership side Falkirk, where he registered one goal and three assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.
Peterborough manager Luke Williams believes the youngster can add another dimension to his attack.
“Ethan is a player that will give us another option in the wide areas,” he said. “He is quick, direct and will be a threat, and I am looking forward to working with him,” the club boss said.
Welcome to Posh Ethan Williams ⚪️🔵#pufc pic.twitter.com/8oDvkgcXvS
— Peterborough United (@theposh) August 13, 2026
Why Did Ethan Williams Leave Manchester United For Peterborough?
The permanent transfer represents a fresh opportunity for Williams to gain consistent senior football and continue his growth after struggling to break into Man United’s first team.
The English prodigy acknowledged the difficulty of leaving the club where he spent much of his development but believes the move is necessary for his career progression.
“I have enjoyed my time at Manchester United and it’s always tough to leave a place like that, but there comes a time in your career where you have to make tough decisions to develop yourself and Peterborough is renowned for helping younger players,” Williams said.
Now, it’s to be seen when Williams makes his Peterborough debut as the EFL League One season begins on August 15.
