Mark Hughes 'heartbroken' following sudden death of son Alex

Alex Hughes, son of former Manchester United and Chelsea player Mark, died suddenly at just 38.

Former Manchester United and Wales striker Mark Hughes has said he and his family are “heartbroken” following the sudden death of his son Alex.

Alex Hughes, who was 38, was Grimsby’s player recruitment lead, having previously held roles at clubs including Manchester City, Fulham, Blackburn and 1860 Munich.

In a statement released via the League Managers Association, former City, Stoke and Blackburn boss Mark Hughes 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.” Alex Hughes had a brief playing career, on the books of Stockport and Wrexham, before joining Blackburn in 2007, working as a performance analyst during his father’s time as manager.

He followed Mark to Manchester City in 2008 and worked with him again at Fulham before forging his own path abroad. He joined Grimsby in 2025.