Alex Hughes was a senior figure in the player-recruitment department at League Two Grimsby Town when he passed at just 38 years old.
Born in 1987 while his father Mark was under contract at Barcelona, Alex transitioned into football administration after a short playing career in Wales.
Alex also worked for Blackburn, Manchester City and Fulham before leading a private academy in Portugal. A statement issued by the League Managers Association on behalf of Mark Hughes read: "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.”
Meanwhile, a Grimsby statement paid tribute to Alex as the club came to terms with such a loss: "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."