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Manchester United legend and former Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has been left heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected passing of his son, Alex Hughes, at the age of 38. The former Welsh international and his family shared the devastating news through a heartfelt statement released via the League Managers Association (LMA).

The football community has come together to offer support to Hughes and his family following the loss of Alex. In the statement issued by the LMA, the former Wales manager expressed the immense sorrow and shock his family is experiencing after the tragedy.

“Jill and I are completely devastated by the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved son Alex,” the statement read. “Alex was a wonderful son, brother to Curtis and Xenna, a devoted husband and father to Jessica and their two lovely children, Sebastian and Leonardo. Alex was serving as the Player Recruitment Lead at Grimsby Town FC and had many cherished friends and colleagues. We will all miss him profoundly. We kindly ask for privacy during this painful time as we cope with our family’s loss.”

Born in 1987 — during the period when his father was playing for Barcelona — Alex grew up surrounded by football. Although he did not pursue a playing career at the same professional level as his father, he enjoyed a brief stint as a footballer in Wales before focusing his career on the administrative and technical sides of the sport.

Alex earned recognition for his sharp eye for talent and in-depth understanding of game tactics. Over the years, he built a strong reputation in football recruitment and analysis, working for several English clubs and continuing his family’s association with the game, albeit behind the scenes.

His professional journey began as a match analyst with Blackburn Rovers, after which he joined Manchester City as a scout. His career later took him to Fulham, 1860 Munich, and Reading, where he gained valuable experience across various footballing cultures and structures.

Alex continued to advance professionally, taking up senior roles including Director of Football at AFC Fylde. He also worked at Morecambe before moving to Grimsby Town, where he was serving as the Player Recruitment Lead at the time of his untimely passing.

Grimsby Town FC expressed deep sorrow over the loss, acknowledging Alex’s vital contribution to the club since his arrival in 2025. He played a key role in shaping the Mariners’ recruitment strategy and first-team development.

Club Chairman Andrew Pettit shared: “Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Alex Hughes. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this extremely difficult period. He will always be remembered as a valued member of the Mariners family who made a significant contribution during his time with us.”

Chief Executive Officer Polly Bancroft added: “Alex was a deeply respected and much-loved member of the Grimsby Town family. His professionalism, dedication, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who worked with him. It was a privilege to work alongside Alex, and I will always remember him as not just an excellent colleague, but also a genuinely compassionate person who brought positivity to everyone around him. He will be greatly missed across the club and beyond.”