Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 18: Former Rochdale midfielder and Manchester United academy graduate Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36, after a courageous battle with cancer for the third time. Diagnosed in April 2024 with stage four lymphoma that had spread to his lungs, Thompson’s passing marks the end of a journey defined by resilience, heart, and an unbreakable fighting spirit.
Thompson began his footballing journey at just nine years old when he joined Manchester United’s Academy, where he trained until the age of 16. In 2005, he signed with Rochdale, making his senior debut the following year against Carlisle United. He quickly established himself as a key player and was instrumental in the club’s promotion to League One in 2010.
Rochdale and Manchester United paid heartfelt tributes. "A man who epitomised our club's values," said United in a statement. "Joe had a deep connection with our club from a young age. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."
Thompson made 157 appearances and scored 17 goals during his initial spell with Rochdale, which ended in 2012. He moved to Tranmere Rovers, with a brief return to Rochdale on loan. In 2013, his world changed dramatically when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. He overcame it and made a heroic return to football with Bury in 2014.
His career then took him to clubs like Wrexham, Southport, and Carlisle United, before he returned once more to Rochdale in 2016. Just months later, the cancer returned. Undeterred, Thompson fought back again and returned to the pitch after just nine months.
In one of the most iconic moments of his career, he entered the pitch as a substitute in the 67th minute on the final day of the 2017/18 season. Rochdale needed a win to avoid relegation. Within two minutes, Thompson scored the only goal of the match — a strike that sealed Rochdale’s League One status and etched his name in club history.
He made one final appearance before retiring in 2019, turning his attention to inspiring others. Post-retirement, Thompson became a motivational speaker, life coach, and a football pundit, as well as serving as a Manchester United ambassador. His story of hope, perseverance, and determination resonated deeply within and beyond the world of football.
Joe Thompson’s legacy lives on — not just in the matches he played, but in the countless lives he touched with his strength and positivity.