Everyone connected with Manchester United is deeply saddened to hear that former academy star Joe Thompson has passed away at the age of 36.
The Manchester United academy has been responsible for 253 youth players graduating into the first-team, with Harry Amass being the latest, making his debut on 16 March 2025.
It is renowned as one of the most established academies in the world after producing the Busby Babes and the Class of 92, including names such as George Best, Norman Whiteside, Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Paul Scholes and more.
Not every player who makes it into the academy becomes a United first-team player, though. Some go on to enjoy careers at other clubs or in different industries, such as Oliver Gill, who left the youth system to focus on his studies despite being a decent footballer capable of making it in the professional game.
This week, we’ve been met with devastating news regarding a former United youth player.
Ex-Man Utd starlet Joe Thompson dies aged 36
Former Manchester United academy star Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36.
The brave footballer had made over 200 appearances for Rochdale while battling cancer, which he suffered his third diagnosis from last year
Thompson retired from football in 2019 after joining United’s academy from the age of nine before signing for Rochdale, where he spent 13-years of his playing career.
During his time playing for the youth times at United, Thompson lined up with three players who went on to win Premier League titles. They include Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck and Danny Drinkwater who all represented England on the international stage.
He also played for Wrexham, Southport, and Carlisle United before returning to his beloved Rochdale.
The highlight of Thompson’s senior career came when Rochdale was promoted to League One in 2010.
Rochdale confirmed Thompson’s passing on Thursday as he died peacefully at home surrounded by his family.
United paid an emotional tribute to Thompson this afternoon, saying: “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.”
Moreover, United paid respect to Thompson when the U18s had a minutes applause for him during their game with Derby on Friday.
Joe Thompson raised over £20,000 for further treatment
Not only did Thompson represent United at youth level, he also spearheaded the launch of the club’s academy alumni programme, which is named ‘United Once, United Forever’. It involves aftercare for former academy players.
Thompson did more notable work away from football when he raised over £20,000 for further treatment and testing by completing a charity fundraiser titled ‘Walk with me for JT’.
That was when Thompson along with fans, friends and team-mates walked 21-miles from Old Trafford to Rochdale, passing through several stadiums in the process, including FC United of Manchester’s Broadhurst Park.
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