Neco Williams Liverpool
Throughout a season marked by inconsistency, Neco Williams emerged as a key figure for Nottingham Forest in the 2025/26 campaign. The Welsh full-back consistently delivered standout performances, becoming a fan favorite at the City Ground. Since his departure from Liverpool four years ago, Williams has seamlessly integrated into the Forest squad, with the club now eager to secure his future amid interest from Premier League rivals Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Everton.
Neco Williams said: “I do feel at home here. It’s been four years now and next season’s going to be my fifth. I’ve enjoyed it. I am still enjoying it. So yeah, let’s see what happens.”
Williams has worked diligently to achieve a level of consistency in his performances, an area he identified for improvement in his game. By establishing a robust support network, including a personal trainer and psychologist, he has reaped the benefits throughout the season.
Neco Williams explained: “It’s just something that a few years ago I thought I needed to get better at. When I was younger, I’d have a really good game, then a not-so-good game. I thought it was important that I needed to try to find that consistency, so I’ve worked on stuff in the background. It’s not just with the physical stuff but with the mental stuff as well.”
Since joining Forest at the age of 21, Williams has made 160 appearances, with 119 as part of the starting XI. He has also worn the captain’s armband and played a crucial role in supporting teammates during challenging times. Off the pitch, Williams has matured, becoming a father last September, which he credits for providing perspective beyond football.
Neco Williams reflected: “I think one of the things is just maturing a bit. When I first came to Forest, I was young. Now I’ve matured. I’ve got my own personal trainer. I’ve got my own psychologist. I’ve got a team around me. That’s definitely helped me.”
Williams’ versatility in defense has been invaluable for Forest. According to Opta statistics, he ranked eighth in the Premier League for tackles, ninth for interceptions, and 11th for ground duels won during the 2025/26 season. His efforts were recognized by fans, who awarded him nearly half of the votes for the club’s Player of the Season award.
Neco Williams expressed gratitude: “It’s a special feeling. I do want to thank the fans; they’ve sold out every home game and every away game across the country and across Europe. We appreciate that so much, not just me but my teammates, the staff, everyone. Football’s nothing without them.”
Williams’ commitment to the club and its supporters is evident, as he often communicates directly with fans, sharing his thoughts and emotions on social media. This transparency has further endeared him to the Forest faithful.
Williams stated: “I like to speak my own words and to let the fans know not just how they’re feeling but how we’re feeling as well. It’s my own words. I speak from the heart.”
Looking ahead, Williams remains ambitious about Nottingham Forest’s future in European competitions. Despite a narrow defeat to Aston Villa in the Europa League semi-finals, he is confident in the club’s potential under the ownership of Mr. Maranakis.
Williams affirmed: “Having that taste of European football, that’s where I believe Nottingham Forest belongs. With an owner like Mr. Maranakis, how ambitious he is and the support he gives us players, we’ll do everything we can to achieve that.”
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