In a heartfelt revelation, the sister of Manchester United academy player Rhys Bennett has shared the tragic circumstances surrounding their father’s death.

The 21-year-old defender expressed his grief on social media, saying he felt “broken” following his father’s passing.

His sister, Megan Bennett, took to Instagram to raise awareness about mental health issues, stating, “I am sharing my dad’s story and my experience as his daughter to contribute to the crucial conversation on mental health awareness.”

She revealed the heartbreaking news, saying, “Over the weekend, I lost my dad to suicide. This tragedy is the result of a long struggle with depression and alcoholism, as addiction often accompanies mental health challenges.”

Megan continued, “The devastation my family and I feel is profound. Sadly, my dad couldn’t recognize how loved he was. If you ever find yourself questioning your worth or how much you are loved, know that you are worthy and loved, even if it’s hard to see. I’m sharing this to offer hope to anyone who needs a sign. Dad, I will love you forever.”

The 21-year-old defender shared pictures of him and his family with his father, as well as the telephone numbers for charities that provide urgent emotional support

Bennett is from Denton, Manchester, and earned some minutes for the first team during United’s 2024 pre-season tour of the United States under Erik ten Hag

Bennett pictured (centre) with team-mates including Scott McTominay, Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford following Manchester United’s Carabao Cup final win in 2023

She added, “I believe my dad was caught in a vicious cycle, feeling trapped by negative emotions and turning to alcohol as an escape.”

‘Unfortunately when we use such strategies we can’t make progress and we can’t break the cycle.

‘This is your sign if you’re struggling to get help, there’s always a way out, there’s always a person’s shoulder to lean on, and remember there are services and groups you can also lean on for support. You never have to do it alone.’ 

Rhy Bennett captained the Manchester United side which won their first FA Youth Cup in 11 years in 2022 – in a team which featured Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho. He scored in the final against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.

His father David was clearly very proud of his son’s achievements and regularly posted online about his latest successes. 

In an Instagram post accompanied by four images with his father and family, he wrote: ‘Dad, I never thought I’d have to write this so soon, over the weekend I found out that he’d took his own life.

‘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’s sister, Megan, also took to social media to advocate for mental health awareness

Manchester United academy star Rhys Bennett has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father at the weekend – which he revealed on social media

Bennett captained the Manchester United side which won their first FA Youth Cup in 11 years in 2022 – in a team which featured Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho – at Old Trafford

‘Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem, please speak up, you don’t realise how much you are truly loved.’

The youngster from Denton, Manchester also shared a post listing the telephone numbers for charities that provide urgent emotional support.

The club have offered him pastoral support and have granted him time away, according to reports in Manchester Evening News.

Meanwhile, several United teammates past and present replied with messages of support.

Dan Gore, 21, said: ‘So sorry brother, sending my love to you and your family.’

Tyler Fredricson wrote: ‘So sorry to hear mate, sending love to you.’

Gabriele Biancheri posted: ‘Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.’

Jack Kingdon added: ‘So sorry to hear bro, sending thoughts.’

Manchester United have offered Bennett pastoral support and have granted him time away

Several United teammates past and present replied to Bennett’s post with messages of support

Manchester United’s official Instagram account also responded: ‘Heartbreaking news, Rhys. Our deepest condolences to you, your family, and anyone else affected by this devastating loss. All our love.’

After spending last season on loan at Fleetwood Town where he made 19 appearances for the League Two side, he returned to United’s Under-21s for the beginning of this campaign.

As for senior experience, Bennett was an unused substitute in United’s 2-0 defeat at West Ham United in December 2023, while he earned some minutes for the first team during their 2024 pre-season tour of the United States under Erik ten Hag.

His two appearances this season for the Under 21s were against Athletic Bilbao in the Premier League International Cup and Lincoln City in the EFL Trophy last month.

For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit www.thecalmzone.net/get-support