At 20 years old, Jonah Williams’ football journey is a powerful example of resilience, persistence, and refusing to let setbacks define your future. His path has been filled with highs, challenges, injuries, and restarts — yet through it all, Jonah’s passion for football has never wavered.

Jonah’s love for the game began almost as early as he could walk.

“I started playing football about three years old. I can’t even remember the first team I played for, but we just played in an orange kit. It was called Tony’s team. I played and loved football from a very young age.”

That early passion quickly developed into something more serious. Jonah progressed through grassroots football and went on to represent South Wales in the Comery Cup, performances that earned him a call-up to the Wales national youth teams. His ability and commitment were clear, and soon after, he was scouted by Newport County.

However, Jonah’s time at Newport was heavily impacted by injury.

“I was just riddled with injuries, to be honest, especially in my second year. First year I didn’t really play too much. Second year I was having a really good season, then got injured. Obviously that was a shame.”

Despite these setbacks, Jonah refused to give up. Determined to keep his career moving forward, he accepted a football scholarship in the United States. While the opportunity initially felt like a fresh start, it brought new challenges.

“I broke my foot, and I sort of had had enough of football out in America. It wasn’t quite the same as back home, so I decided to come back.”

Returning to the UK, Jonah knew he needed a genuine opportunity to relaunch his career. That opportunity came through UK Football Trials, which he saw as a platform to put himself back in front of coaches and decision-makers.

“It was a good avenue to showcase your ability and see what can happen off the back of that.”

Jonah impressed during the trials and was invited into Cardiff Metropolitan University’s pre-season programme. With no guarantees and everything to prove, he approached pre-season with focus and intensity.

“Pre-season went really well. I thought I’d done quite well.”

That hard work paid off when he was offered a contract.

“I was over the moon when I signed the contract. It was just nice to be back having a club in the UK again. I’d lost momentum in the States, and the standard isn’t the same. It was a really good feeling to feel like I was on the right trajectory again.”

Although further injuries have limited his game time since signing, Jonah’s mindset remains strong and forward-focused.

“If you really love football, you’ll keep pursuing it and keep trying. For me, giving up has never been an option.”

Jonah believes that fear can often hold players back — and encourages young footballers to play with bravery and freedom.

“Don’t be scared to take risks on a football pitch. Especially if you’re a winger, they want to see you take players on, be direct, and show bravery.”

When asked whether he would recommend UK Football Trials, Jonah is clear:

“Oh yeah, I definitely recommend it. It’s clearly an avenue, and it worked for me.”

He also reassures players who feel time may be against them:

“I’d still say it’s worth coming, regardless of age.”

Now focused on recovery and consistency, Jonah’s ambition remains unchanged.

“I just want to be part of the team here at Cardiff Met, get back from injury, and hopefully stay injury-free. I want to play at the highest level I possibly can.”

Jonah Williams’ journey proves that football pathways are rarely straightforward. Through injuries, setbacks, and restarts, he continues to fight for his dream — showing that resilience, belief, and the right opportunity can keep doors open, no matter how many times you have to knock.