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Pep Guardiola pays tribute to Stuart Pearce and family after son Harley's tragic death

Harley Pearce, son of England legend Stuart, has tragically passed away and tributes have been pouring in for the young man

Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola has added to an outpouring of sympathy for Stuart Pearce after his son's tragic death

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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has offered his condolences to Stuart Pearce and his family after the tragic death of the England legend's son.

Harley Pearce, 21, lost his life following a tractor accident on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Witcombe, Gloucestershire on Thursday October 16. His devastated father Stuart and relatives paid tribute to Harley, who was operating the tractor, describing him as "a cherished son and devoted brother".

During a press conference in Spain, Guardiola expressed: "I know there are no words for this huge tragedy but our deepest love to him and his family."

Stuart featured in 38 matches for Manchester City from 2001 to 2002, subsequently taking charge as their boss following his renowned spell at Nottingham Forest.

Harley Pearce

Harley Pearce, the 21-year-old son of former England and Nottingham Forest defender Stuart Pearce

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Nottingham Forest shared on X: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Harley Pearce. The thoughts of everyone connected with Nottingham Forest are with Stuart and his family at this truly difficult time."

Harley, a resident of Marlborough, Wiltshire, was pronounced dead at the crash site, which reportedly occurred when the tractor experienced a tyre failure causing Harley to leave the carriageway. Emergency crews responded to the incident at approximately 2.30pm on Thursday, according to Gloucestershire Police.

In a statement issued through police, the Pearce family expressed: "Our family is truly shocked and utterly heartbroken at the loss of our cherished son and devoted brother, Harley.

"A soul who left an unforgettable imprint on all who knew him. He was a golden boy with an infectious smile, and this shocking tragedy will leave a huge hole in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

"With a quiet, understated strength and deep kindness, we are so proud of the young man he had become, exhibiting a wonderful work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit in the farming industry. He will always be our shining star. Rest in peace, our beautiful son and brother. You will never ever be forgotten."

Harley Pearce

Tributes have poured in for Harley Pearce after the tragic tractor crash

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Stuart also turned out 42 times for West Ham United between 1999 and 2001, reports the Mirror.

The Hammers wrote on X: "We are saddened to hear of Harley Pearce's passing. Everyone at the Club sends their deepest condolences to Stuart and his family at this tragic time."

Guardiola's Manchester City team face Villarreal in Spain this evening in the UEFA Champions League.

His club posted yesterday: "Everyone at Manchester City sends their love and thoughts to Stuart and his family at this very difficult time."

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