Manchester United legend's son died of sudden death syndrome, inquest reveals
By Matthew Hancock-Bruce 6th Aug 2026
An inquest has revealed the cause of death of a Manchester United legend's son.
Alex Hughes, son of the former Red Devils striker Mark Hughes, was found collapsed in his bedroom at his Prestbury home by his sons on June 19, 2026.
Despite resuscitation efforts, the Wrexham-born 38-year-old was confirmed dead at the scene by paramedics.
An inquest into his death was held at Cheshire Coroner's Court in Warrington on Wednesday, August 5.
During the inquest, it was heard that a post mortem examination had attributed his death to 'sudden adult death syndrome'.
This was accepted as the medical cause of death by Area Coroner Victoria Davies, who concluded Alex's death to be a result of natural causes.
In a statement released through the League Managers Association shortly after his son's death, Mark 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 enjoyed an extensive career in football, with roles at Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham, AFC Fylde and Morecambe.
Most recently, Alex had been working as player recruitment lead at Grimsby Town FC, having joined the Mariners in 2025.
Club 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."
Chief executive officer Polly Bancroft added: "Alex was a much-loved and highly respected member of the Grimsby Town family. His professionalism, dedication and warmth made a lasting impact on everyone who worked with him.
"I thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Alex and will remember him not only as an outstanding colleague, but as a genuinely kind person who had a positive effect on those around him.
"He will be greatly missed across the Club and beyond."
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