How Ella Toone is navigating grief through football

There will be an empty chair at Ella Toone’s wedding this summer as the England and Manchester United midfielder prepares for a major life moment without her dad, Nick.

Toone has spoken openly about the role her father played in her career, describing him as the “main reason” she is where she is today. He is also the person she dedicates every goal to, making his absence especially significant as she balances personal grief with life at the top of the game.

A personal loss carried into football

For Toone, football has become part of how she navigates that grief. The midfielder has continued to perform for Manchester United and England while carrying the memory of her father with her in every match. Her story highlights how elite athletes often deal with loss away from the spotlight, even while remaining in the public eye.

The BBC has followed Toone more closely in 24 Hours with Ella Toone on BBC iPlayer, offering a look at how she manages the demands of football and the emotions linked to her family life. The programme reflects the human side of a player whose career has been shaped by support at home and by a deep personal connection to the game.

Why Nick Toone remains central to her story

Nick Toone’s influence is woven into Ella’s journey from the early stages of her career through to her success at club and international level. Her tribute after goals has become a familiar part of her story, underlining how much his guidance and belief meant to her development.

As she prepares for her wedding, the empty chair serves as a reminder of both loss and legacy. It is a moment that brings together family, football and memory, with Toone continuing to honour her father while moving forward in her own life and career.