Rotherham United officially release former Manchester United defender
Image Credits: Imago Images
Rotherham United have confirmed a number of departures as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign, with several experienced first-team players set to leave the club this summer.
The Millers are reshaping their squad after another difficult season and have also confirmed that former Manchester United forward Duncan Watmore will depart when his contract expires.
Manchester United have been making similar decisions at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils recently announced that Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia and Jadon Sancho will all leave the club this summer as Michael Carrick continues to reshape his squad ahead of a return to Champions League football.
Now, another former United figure is officially searching for a new challenge.
Rotherham confirmed on their official website that Reece James will leave the club at the end of his contract on 30 June.
The experienced left-sided player was included on the club’s retained and released list alongside a number of other senior departures.
James spent the last two seasons with the Millers and made 44 appearances during the 2025/26 campaign, scoring twice.
His exit brings an end to another chapter in a career that has taken him across the English Football League.
Many supporters may not remember that James also spent time at Manchester United earlier in his career.
After progressing through the youth systems at Rossendale United, Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End, he joined Old Trafford in 2012 alongside his brother Matty.
Although he never made a senior appearance for United, loan spells with Carlisle United, Rotherham and Huddersfield Town helped him establish himself in professional football.
He later secured a permanent move to Wigan Athletic.
Reece James has enjoyed spells with Sunderland, Doncaster Rovers, Blackpool and Sheffield Wednesday before returning to Rotherham.
With his contract now coming to an end, the former Manchester United defender will be available on a free transfer as he looks for the next step in his career.
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