Alex Hughes, the director of player recruitment, has died suddenly at the age of 38.

League Two football club Grimsby Town recently announced the passing of its head of player recruitment, Alex Hughes, at the age of 38.

Alex was the son of former Manchester United and Welsh legend Mark Hughes. The Hughes family released a statement through the League Managers Association expressing their heartbreak over Alex's sudden passing and saying they would miss him dearly.

Alex Hughes joined Grimsby Town in 2025. During his tenure, he worked closely with head coach David Attell and the football department, playing a vital role in developing the club's recruitment strategy and supporting the development of the men's first team squad.

Polly Bancroft, CEO of the town of Grimsby, spoke highly of him, praising his professionalism and dedication, which impressed his colleagues. He described him not only as an outstanding comrade-in-arms but also as a truly kind person.

Early in his career, Alex had brief stints at Stockport County and Wrexham. In 2007, he joined Blackburn Rovers as a performance analyst, at a time when his father, Mark Hughes, was the manager.

After that, Alex followed his father to work at Manchester City and Fulham, and then went overseas to develop independently, leaving his mark at clubs such as Fard and Morecambe.

The Greensby Town Club and Blackburn Rovers, among other teams Alex played for, immediately extended their sincerest condolences to Alex's wife, children, and the Hughes family.

Image source: Internet/Grimsby Town Official Website