‘Super’ Manny Williams has announced his retirement from football, bringing to an end a distinguished career in the non-league game that spanned over two decades. Basingstoke Town Football Club marked the occasion on 5 May 2026 by paying tribute to the forward, who finished his playing career with Risborough Rangers FC.
Williams became a well-regarded figure during his time in Hampshire, where he completed three separate spells with Basingstoke Town. After joining from Hayes & Yeading United in December 2012, he made over 130 appearances and scored 43 goals for the club. Fans will remember his debut on Boxing Day 2012 against Farnborough FC, as well as his first goal for the team in a 2-1 victory over Dorchester Town FC in February 2013.
A highlight of his time with the club was the 2014 Hampshire Senior Cup success at Fratton Park, where Williams scored against his former side, Havant & Waterlooville FC. His contributions were further recognised when he was named the Away Fans’ Player of the Season for 2015/16. He eventually made his final appearance for Basingstoke in February 2019 under manager Martin Kuhl, helping the team to a 10-3 win over Staines Town FC.
Beyond his domestic success, Williams earned an international cap for the Sierra Leone national team in February 2012, appearing as a substitute during a match against São Tomé and Príncipe. Throughout his lengthy career, which saw him score 31 league goals for Havant & Waterlooville, he recorded approximately 536 senior appearances and 170 goals across the non-league system.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
