Atlanta United sign Irish International Derrick Williams
Derrick Williams in action against New Zealand for the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in 2019 Credit: Brian F Smyth (ETPhotos)
Atlanta United have officially signed center back Derrick Williams for the 2025 season, with an option extending to 2026.
The club signed Williams as the No. 1 pick in Stage Two of the 2023 MLS Re-Entry Draft on December 21.
Williams brings a wealth of experience from his three seasons in MLS with LA Galaxy and D.C. United, as well as an 11-season tenure in England.
Carlos Bocanegra, Atlanta United Vice President and Technical Director, praised Williams' abilities.
“Derrick is a tough, no-nonsense defender... His understanding of the league, coupled with his physicality gives us additional options in our back line as we navigate multiple competitions this season,” Bocanegra said.
The 30-year-old defender began his Premier League career with Aston Villa in 2012, moving to Bristol City in League One the following year.
Williams played a key role in Bristol City's promotion to the Championship in the 2014-15 season and later joined Blackburn Rovers, accumulating 152 appearances.
Born in Hamburg, Germany, and holding an American passport, Williams does not occupy an International Roster spot.
Internationally, Williams has represented Ireland, making his senior debut in a friendly against France in 2018. He has earned three caps and scored a goal in a friendly against New Zealand.
Atlanta United are set to kick off their MLS season on February 24th against Columbus.
