Former Manchester United and Wales striker Mark Hughes has announced the death of his son Alex at the age of 38, describing himself and his wife as "totally heartbroken" by the loss.The 62-year-old, who also played for Chelsea and managed the Welsh national team between 1999 and 2004, released a statement through the League Managers Association on Saturday evening."Jill and I are totally heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved son Alex," Hughes said.He described Alex as "a wonderful son, brother to Curtis and Xenna, devoted husband and father to Jessica and their two beautiful children Sebastian and Leonardo."Alex had a short playing career himself, featuring for Stockport County and Wrexham before transitioning into backroom roles within the sport.In 2007, he joined Blackburn Rovers as a performance analyst while his father was managing the club.His career in player analysis and recruitment subsequently took him to Manchester City and Fulham, both during periods when Mark Hughes held the managerial reins.After his time working alongside his father, Alex led a private football academy in Portugal before moving into player agency work.More recently, he held positions at non-league sides AFC Fylde and Morecambe prior to his appointment at Grimsby Town.Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is devastated to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of our Player Recruitment Lead, Alex Hughes.Rest in peace, Alex. Once a Mariner, always a Mariner.#GTFC Grimsby Town F.C. (@officialgtfc) June 21, 2026 Alex joined the League Two club in 2025 as player recruitment lead, a position he held until his passing.In his role with the Mariners, he collaborated closely with head coach David Artell and the wider football department.The club stated that he "played an important role in shaping the club's recruitment strategy and supporting the continued development of the men's first-team squad."Grimsby described how Alex "quickly became a valued and highly respected member of the football club" following his arrival.The statement, published on the club's website on Sunday, noted that he was "a highly valued member of the Grimsby family."The League Two club expressed devastation at learning of Alex's sudden and unexpected passing."Alex was a devoted husband, proud father, beloved son, brother and friend," the statement read.Grimsby extended their heartfelt condolences to Alex's wife Jessica, his sons Sebastian and Leonardo, his parents Mark and Jill, his brother Curtis, his sister Xenna, and all those close to him during what they described as an incredibly difficult time.The club requested that the family's privacy be respected as they come to terms with their loss.The Hughes family also asked for privacy "during this sad time."Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter