Joe Thompson Dies at 36: Manchester United Lead Tributes to Former Academy Star
Manchester United have led tributes to former footballer Joe Thompson, who has died from cancer at the age of 36. Thompson, who came through Manchester United’s academy, revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer for the third time last year. He was found to have stage four lymphoma – a type of blood cancer.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, Thompson had previously been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 and recovered before the cancer returned four years later. He went on to recover a second time before calling time on his career in 2019. Thompson’s playing career included spells at Rochdale, Tranmere, Southport, Bury, and Carlisle United.
The Daily Mail reported that Thompson became a regular pundit on MUTV following his retirement and held an ambassadorial role, along with working as a motivational speaker and life coach. Manchester United paid tribute to their former academy player, stating that Thompson "epitomised our club’s values."
‘A man who epitomised our club’s values,’ Manchester United said in a tribute. ‘We are saddened to share that Joe Thompson has passed away. A warm personality who had a deep connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this difficult time.’ Manchester United added that Thompson spearheaded the launch of the club’s academy alumni programme — named ‘United Once, United Forever’ — which they stated was an industry-leading formalisation of aftercare for former Academy players.
The Daily Mail also reported that Thompson raised over £20,000 for further treatment and testing to help future generations by completing a charity fundraiser titled ‘Walk with me for JT.’ He completed the 21-mile walk with fans, friends, and team-mates from Old Trafford to Rochdale, via several stadiums in Greater Manchester.
Thompson spent the majority of his playing career at Rochdale, making 203 appearances across three different spells. He was part of the Rochdale side which was promoted to League One in 2010. Thompson achieved hero status at the club on the final day of the 2017/18 season, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory which ensured the club avoided relegation to League Two.
Rochdale, where Thompson spent the majority of his career, said they were "devastated" by the club legend’s passing. The club confirmed their players will wear black armbands during their match against Altrincham on Friday, with a tribute planned ahead for their home match against AFC Fylde on Easter Monday.
The Thompson family released a statement, which read: "The words I thought I would never have to write… Our brave and courageous Joey passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, he was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounding by his family when he transitioned." The family also expressed their gratitude to everyone who has been part of Joe’s journey and announced that an open funeral will be held for those who wish to attend.
The news of Thompson’s passing has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many paying tribute to the former player. As reported by the Daily Mail, Rochdale wrote on social media that the club was "devastated to learn of the passing of Dale legend, Joe Thompson", adding that he had passed away peacefully at home on Thursday with his family by his side.
Thompson is survived by his wife, Chantelle, and their two daughters, Thailula and AthenaRae. The Daily Mail has reported that the family will continue to keep filling their daughters with Joe’s love every single day. The legacy of Joe Thompson will live on, and he will be deeply missed by everyone and the world will not be the same without his contagious energy.
