Björn Hardley

Björn Bryan Hardley (born 19 December 2002) is a Dutch footballer who plays as a defender for club Jong Utrecht, Utrecht's reserve team.

Early career
Born in Tilburg, Hardley started his career with local sides SV Advendo and RKVV DIA, before joining NAC Breda in 2014. While at NAC, Hardley's performances caught the eye of Manchester United scout Rene Moonen, who invited four other United scouts to watch Hardley in action.

Manchester United
After impressing scouts, Hardley signed a three-year contract with Manchester United in 2019. He progressed through the ranks at United, establishing himself in the under-18 squad before moving to the under-23 side. He made three appearances in the 2021–22 EFL Trophy, scoring once in a 3–2 defeat to Lincoln City.

Having trained with the first team since November 2021, Hardley was added to Manchester United's Champions League squad in early December.

Utrecht
On 20 July 2023, Hardley's departure from Manchester United was confirmed by the club as he had joined with Dutch club Utrecht. He was the second player from Manchester United to join the club in the summer transfer window, following Zidane Iqbal. He was moved to the club's reserve team, Jong Utrecht, for the 2023–24 season. His debut came on 21 August 2023, coming on as a substitute in the 90th minute, in a 1–0 victory over FC Groningen. His first start for the club came a month later on 22 September, in a 3–2 victory over Cambuur.

International career
Hardley is eligible to represent the Netherlands and Suriname.