Manchester United defender receives support after father’s death
Manchester United have offered full pastoral support to young defender Rhys Bennett following the tragic death of his father, reports BritPanorama.
The 21-year-old academy graduate revealed on social media that his father had taken his own life, prompting an outpouring of sympathy from teammates, staff, and fans.
Bennett, who captained United’s 2022 FA Youth Cup-winning side, has been granted compassionate leave by the club as he takes time away from football to grieve. United are believed to be working closely with Bennett and his family, ensuring he receives emotional and professional support during what the club has described as a period of “immense personal loss.”
In a moving Instagram post shared with his followers, Bennett posted a series of photographs of himself with his father, alongside a message that spoke of love, disbelief, and heartbreak. “Dad, I never thought I’d have to write this so soon,” he wrote. “Over the weekend I found out that he’d took his own life. Broken, devastated, just don’t want to believe it’s real but the sad reality is that it is. From driving me here, there and everywhere as a kid to watching me fulfil my dream of becoming a professional footballer. I love you in this life and the next.”
Bennett used the post to share a powerful message about mental health awareness. “Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem,” he added. “Please speak up. You don’t realise how much you are truly loved.” He included contact details for organisations offering immediate emotional support, urging others to reach out for help if they are struggling.
Tributes have poured in from across the football community, with fellow United players and academy graduates quick to extend their condolences. Midfielder Dan Gore wrote: “So sorry brother, sending my love to you and your family.” Defender Tyler Fredricson added: “So sorry to hear mate, sending love to you.” Gabe Biancheri and Jack Kingdon also expressed their sympathies on social media, reflecting the close-knit nature of the United squad.
Manchester-born Bennett has been regarded as one of United’s most promising young defenders. He lifted the FA Youth Cup two years ago as captain of a side that included Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who have since broken into the first team. Bennett spent last season on loan at Fleetwood Town, gaining valuable experience in League Two, and featured for United’s first team during their 2024 pre-season tour of the United States.
United have stated they will continue to support Bennett for as long as needed, with staff across the academy and senior setup rallying around him. The club’s welfare and player care team have been in close contact with the family since the news broke.
Anyone who is in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide can call the Samaritans anonymously for free from a UK phone on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org.
In moments like these, the divisions between the pitch and personal life blur dramatically, a stark reminder that behind every athlete, there exists a human story, layered with both triumph and tragedy.
