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Manchester United academy star Rhys Bennett's sister has opened up on the tragic reason behind their father's death.
The 21-year-old defender shared the sad news on social media on Monday morning, describing how he had been left 'broken' by his passing.
And Bennett's sister, Megan, has also taken to Instagram to advocate for mental health awareness, writing: 'I am sharing my dad's story and my experience as his daughter to add to the important discourse around mental health awareness.
'Anyone who knows me knows I've worked in mental health care for the last four years and this passion has been driven through lived experience with my dad.
'Over the weekend, I lost my dad to suicide. This is the result of a lifelong battle of depression and alcoholism (addiction issues often come hand in hand with mental health issues unfortunately).
She continued: 'The pain that myself and my family is left in is pure devastation. Unfortunately my dad was unable to see the extent to which he was loved. If you are ever in a position where you are doubting how loved you are, remember you are worthy and you are loved even if you can't see it. I am sharing this in case this is someone's 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
'I believe my dad was stuck in a cycle feeling trapped by negative feelings and using alcohol to numb these feelings.
'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
