Image Credits: Christopher Thomond/Guardian
Former Manchester United academy prospect Joe Thompson has died aged 36, after a battle with cancer.
The retired midfielder was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma in April, the third time he had been diagnosed with cancer.
Thompson spent six years at Rochdale between 2006 and 2012, making 203 appearances for the club.
In a statement, Rochdale said: “We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality.
“He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.”
Thompson started his career in the Manchester United academy in 1998, playing alongside players such as Tom Cleverley and Danny Drinkwater.
After seven years at Carrington, he moved on, joining Rochdale’s academy and making his debut for the first team in 2006.
Thompson left The Dale for Tranmere Rovers in 2012 but would return to the club on loan in 2013.
Stints at Bury, Wrexham, Southport and Carlisle United would follow, before the Englishman returned to Rochdale in 2016, spending three more years at Crown Oil Arena before announcing his retirement in 2019.
He would go on to work as a motivational speaker, as well as holding an ambassadorial role with Manchester United.
Despite battling against the effects of cancer, Thompson raised funds for various charities – in October, he walked for 21 miles from Old Trafford to Crown Oil Arena, to raise awareness of cancer treatments.
In a statement, Manchester United said: “Everyone who knew Joe thought he was a great man, whose personality lit up every room he entered despite the pain he had endured in his life.
“We’ll always remember him and send our deepest condolences to his wife, Chantelle, and two daughters.”
A man who epitomised our club’s values
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. pic.twitter.com/40ddQpyRTi
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 18, 2025
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