Manchester United player Rhys Bennett has published a devastating statement on social media, revealing that his father has committed himself. The Premier League club has announced that it is providing pastoral care to the 21-year-old and has also approved compassionate leave.
According to The Sun, Manchester-born Bennett, who has easily risen through the ranks at Carrington but spent the entire season on loan at League Two side Fleetwood Town, has been granted compassionate leave by the club.
Bennett won the FA Youth Cup, however he has yet to make a competitive senior game for Manchester United. In 2024/25, he made 35 appearances in the English fourth division, as well as two in the EFL Trophy and one in the League Cup. This season, he has played 172 minutes in all competitions for United’s U21s.
Manchester United’s Bennett Announces His Father’s Tragic Passing on Social Media
Bennett took to Instagram and shared four photos with his father and close family. The caption read: “Dad, I never thought I’d have to write this so soon; during the weekend, I learned that he had committed suicide. Broken, devastated, and unable to believe it’s true, but the terrible reality is that it is, from driving me about as a child to witnessing me achieve my dream of becoming a professional player.
“I adore you in both this life and the next. Suicide is a permanent answer to a temporary situation; please speak up, you have no idea how much you are actually loved.”
As previously stated, Bennett gave contact information for charities that provide urgent emotional support. Following the sad family tragedy, many footballers, including those who played alongside Bennett in the United academy ranks, have rallied behind him. Kobbie Mainoo commented, “Sending love to you and your family bro, sorry for your loss.”
Scott McTominay, who no longer plays for the club, also responded to the youngster’s tweet. “So sorry brother, thinking of you and your family,” the Scottish midfielder said, while the club also responded, stating, “Heartbreaking news, Rhys. We extend our heartfelt condolences to you, your family, and anyone else affected by this tragic loss. “Sending all of our love.”
Bennett played for Erik ten Hag’s first team on last season’s tour of the United States, and he has appeared twice this season for the Under-21s, against Athletic Club in the Premier League International Cup and against Lincoln City in the EFL Trophy.
He also spent time on loan at Stockport County in the second half of the 2023/24 season. The 2003-born centre-back played just one senior game for the Hatters in order to gain experience. He was an unused substitute in United’s 2-0 loss at West Ham United in December 2023.
Manchester United’s Post Statement
Following the tragic news, Manchester United issued a sincere statement over social media. The Old Trafford club announced a minute’s silence before the following Under-21s game against Rochdale, citing Bennett’s and his family’s need for solitude. It reads:
“Rhys is receiving emotional assistance from the club and has sought privacy for his family during this difficult time.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Rhys, his family, and everyone else affected by this tragic tragedy. To pay tribute, our Under-21s will wear black armbands and observe a minute’s silence during this evening’s National League Cup match against Rochdale.”
If you have been touched by any of these difficulties and would like to chat with someone in confidence, please do not suffer alone. Call Samaritans for free at their confidential 24-hour phone line, 116 123.
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