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, Wrexham-born Mark Hughes, former City, Stoke and Blackburn boss, 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.
(Image: PA)
“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.
A spokesman for the club said: "Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is devastated to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of our Player Recruitment Lead, Alex Hughes.
"Alex was a devoted husband, proud father, beloved son, brother and friend, and a highly valued member of the Grimsby Town family.
"Alex joined the Mariners in 2025 and quickly became a valued and highly respected member of the football club. Working closely with Head Coach David Artell and the football department, he played an important role in shaping the club’s recruitment strategy and supporting the continued development of the men’s first-team squad.
"Prior to joining Grimsby Town, Alex built an extensive career in football spanning performance analysis, recruitment and player representation. His experience included roles with Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham, AFC Fylde and Morecambe, earning a reputation as a dedicated professional with an outstanding knowledge of the game.
"Beyond his professional achievements, Alex was deeply valued by those who knew him. His warmth, professionalism and positive personality made a lasting impression throughout the football club and the wider football community.
"The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club are with Alex’s wife Jessica, his children Sebastian and Leonardo, his parents Mark and Jill, his brother Curtis, his sister Xenna, and all of his family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
"The club respectfully asks that the privacy of Alex’s family is respected as they come to terms with their loss.
"Rest in peace, Alex. Once a Mariner, always a Mariner."