“Heartbroken” Ex-United forward Mark Hughes pays tribute to son Alex after his tragic passing

Former Manchester United forward Mark Hughes has released a statement following the tragic passing of his son, Alex, aged 38. Grimsby Town statement Alex Hughes enjoyed a brief playing career with Stockport and Wrexham before he joined Blackburn Rovers in 2007 to work as a performance analyst. He then moved to Grimsby in 2025, having also previously held roles at Manchester City, Fulham, AFC Fylde and Morecambe. Alex served as player recruitment lead at Grimsby. The club posted a statement on their website which reads, “Everyone at Grimsby is devastated to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of our player recruitment lead, Alex Hughes.” “Alex was a devoted husband, proud father, beloved son, brother and friend, and a highly valued member of the Grimsby family. Alex joined the Mariners in 2025 and quickly became a valued and highly respected member of the football club.” “Working closely with head coach David Artell and the football department, he played an important role in shaping the club’s recruitment strategy and supporting the continued development of the men’s first-team squad.” “The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Grimsby are with Alex’s wife Jessica, his children Sebastian and Leonardo, his parents Mark and Jill, his brother Curtis, his sister Xenna, and all of his family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.” “The club respectfully asks that the privacy of Alex’s family is respected as they come to terms with their loss.” Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is devastated to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of our Player Recruitment Lead, Alex Hughes. Rest in peace, Alex. Once a Mariner, always a Mariner.#GTFC — Grimsby Town F.C. (@officialgtfc) June 21, 2026 Mark Hughes left heartbroken Hughes, who made 467 appearances for United across two separate spells, also released a statement via the League Managers Association. The 62-year-old said, “Jill and I are totally heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved son Alex. Alex was a wonderful son, brother to Curtis and Xenna, devoted husband and father to Jessica and their two beautiful children Sebastian and Leonardo.” “Alex was Player Recruitment Lead at Grimsby Town FC, and had many good friends and colleagues. He will be so deeply missed by us all.” “We ask for privacy during this sad time as we come to terms with our family’s loss.” United have also sent their love and condolences to Hughes and his family. Sending love and strength to the Hughes family and everyone affected by this tragic news — our thoughts are with you ❤️ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 21, 2026 The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!