Man City fan, 35, dies in Spain hours before Champions League clash as statement issued

A beloved Manchester City supporter who had travelled to Spain to watch his team play was discovered dead just hours before kick-off. Much-adored Blues fan Guy Bradshaw, 35, had made the trip to the Costa Blanca ahead of City's Champions League clash against Villarreal on Tuesday evening.

Alongside a substantial portion of the Blues' travelling contingent, Guy had chosen to stay in the bustling tourist destination of Benidorm, approximately 130 miles away. Tragically, disaster struck when he was discovered dead in his bed by a friend at the flat where he was lodging during the early hours of Tuesday morning (October 21).

A relative has now offered a heartfelt tribute to father-of-one Guy, from Wythenshawe, whilst shocked fellow supporters have also expressed their condolences.

His cause of death remains unconfirmed, though Guy's cousin Jess Bradshaw, 26, informed the Manchester Evening News that the family have been told there are 'no suspicious circumstances. '.

Guy's father Martin, 56, had been scheduled to fly out to meet Guy for the match, Jess revealed.

"It's just so tragic that he ended up going to identify his body instead," Jess said.

Just hours earlier, Guy had shared a video on social media featuring Ricky Hatton's son Campbell Hatton, where the duo were both chanting 'there's only one Ricky Hatton. '.

Guy operated his own carpet cleaning enterprise and leaves behind his 11-year-old daughter, his mother Jeanette, twin brother Kane, and younger brother Zak. Jess described her cousin as a 'gentle' man who 'idolised his daughter' and 'lived for City.'

"He was so well-known in Wythenshawe, and by City fans," she said. "He was really gentle, kind and caring. He was never in any trouble. He never had any enemies. He lived for City and his young daughter. He idolised her."

Jess revealed his death had left the entire family feeling 'empty.'

"We're just completely shocked, as he was so young," she said. "He was a healthy lad. The whole family is just devastated."

Jess explained the trip was arranged at the last minute and that Guy had forgotten to arrange travel insurance, meaning the family now confronted a substantial bill to have his body brought back to the UK.

A Manchester City spokesman posted on X today: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Guy Bradshaw, a City supporter who tragically died in Spain before the Club's match against Villarreal last night.

"Everyone at the Club sends their condolences to his family, friends, and fellow fans during this difficult time. Once a Blue, Always a Blue."

Tributes also poured in on social media, with a fundraising page established for Guy's family.

One friend said on X, formerly Twitter: "RIP to the biggest blue there ever was! Guy Bradshaw Followed the club over land and sea all his life and through the lower divisions when we were younger.

"Absolutely gutted for his family and especially his young daughter. Rest in peace mate."

One individual expressed their sorrow on Facebook, stating: "Devastated to hear the passing of Guy Bradshaw whilst away watching the Blues. Top lad, worked with him a few years back and used to see him at matches. My thoughts are with your family pal."

Another added: "What sad news to wake up to. You was only doing what you do best, following City everywhere. Thinking of the family."