Former Manchester United and Wales striker Mark Hughes has confirmed the sudden death of his son, Alex Hughes, at the age of 38. Alex was the player recruitment lead at Grimsby Town.
Family's Heartbreak
Mark Hughes and his wife Jill expressed their devastation in a statement released through the League Managers Association. They described being “totally heartbroken” by the loss of their “beloved son Alex.”
The statement read: “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.”
Football Career
Alex began his football journey as a player, featuring for the reserve sides of Stockport County and Wrexham. He later transitioned into performance analysis and recruitment, joining Blackburn Rovers in 2007 as a performance analyst. He subsequently worked at Manchester City and Fulham, and spent time with a private academy system in Portugal from 2011 to 2014, as well as a role with 1860 Munich. After a stint as a player agent, he returned to club football with AFC Fylde and Morecambe before joining Grimsby Town in July 2025.
Club's Tribute
Grimsby Town expressed deep sadness and shock. Chairman Andrew Pettit said: “Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is shocked and saddened by the news of Alex's passing. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. He will always be remembered as a valued member of the Mariners family who contributed so much during his time with us.”
Mark Hughes' Legacy
Mark Hughes, 62, enjoyed a distinguished playing career at Manchester United, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Southampton, Everton, and Blackburn Rovers. He won multiple trophies including the FA Cup, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, League Cup, and the Premier League. He earned 72 caps for Wales, scoring 16 goals—including a memorable winner against England on his international debut. As a manager, he led Wales, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham, QPR, Stoke City, Southampton, and most recently Carlisle United.
