Manchester United have offered full pastoral support to young defender Rhys Bennett following the tragic death of his father.
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.”
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In a moving Instagram post shared with his followers, Bennett posted a series of photographs of himself with his father and family, 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.
Manchester United have offered full pastoral support to young defender Rhys Bennett following the tragic death of his father
|GETTY
“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.
Manchester United next five fixtures include four away games | GB NEWS/GETTY
Rhys Bennett is a bright prospect at Manchester United
|GETTY
“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 also included contact details for organisations offering immediate emotional support, urging others to reach out for help if they are struggling.
Tributes poured in from across the football community. Fellow United players and academy graduates were quick to send 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.”
Rhys Bennett pictured training with the Manchester United first-team earlier this season
|GETTY
Gabe Biancheri posted: “Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,” while Jack Kingdon wrote: “So sorry to hear bro, sending thoughts.”
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 managed to break into the first-team.
His leadership and maturity at youth level earned him recognition within the club’s development pathway, with many tipping him for a future first-team breakthrough.
Bennett spent last season on loan at Fleetwood Town, gaining valuable experience in League Two. He featured for United’s first team during their 2024 pre-season tour of the United States and has made two appearances for the Under-21s this season, against Athletic Bilbao in the Premier League International Cup and Lincoln City in the EFL Trophy.
United said they would 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.