Thompson began his career at Manchester United’s youth academy and left the club in 2005, when he was just 16.
Former midfielder Joe Thompson, who came through the youth academy at Manchester United, died this Friday (18) at the age of 36.
The Englishman had been diagnosed with cancer for the third time in recent years. This time, he was suffering from lymphoma.
Thompson had already fought a battle with the disease in 2014 and 2017. During that period, the midfielder managed to recover and even played for Rochdale, the team he played for the most during his career.
The athlete’s last professional match was in August 2018, when Rochdale beat Burton 2-1 in a 3rd division English Championship match. He was forced to retire after “pushing his body to the limit”.
We are devastated to hear of the passing of Dale legend Joe Thompson. Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time. Official Rochdale statement
Thompson began his career at Manchester United’s youth academy and left the club in 2005, aged just 16. As well as Rochdale, he played for teams including Tranmere Rovers, Bury, Wrexham and Carlisle United.
The former player’s wife Chantella paid tribute to her husband. “Joe made such an impact on so many people and we are all eternally grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and sticking with us for as long as he did against all odds,” she wrote. He is also survived by three daughters.
