Former Birmingham City manager Chris Hughton has revealed he was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year and has since made a full recovery. The 67-year-old, who led the Blues during the 2011/12 season, spoke publicly for the first time about the illness.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Hughton received the diagnosis in April 2025 and underwent surgery to remove his prostate in May 2025. He is now cancer free and feeling energetic. “The news certainly didn’t scare me,” Hughton said. “I know everyone is different, but my first impression was ‘I’ll be fine’. I didn’t instantly think ‘This is probably just going to kill me.’ I just thought, ‘OK, we’ll have to do what we have to do’.”
He first noticed warning signs during a routine health check while managing Brighton. Continued testing led to a scan that detected cancer, prompting the surgery. “I had very good advice and all the treatment options were given to me, and I decided to have my prostate removed. The recovery has gone really well,” he added.
Recovery and Outlook
One year after the operation, Hughton feels positive. “I’m one year post operation and I feel good. It’s all gone very well. I’ve got a lot of energy. Keeping active and busy is part of how I am anyway, but it’s also about rehabilitation and keeping your mind active as well. I’m very comfortable with my prognosis and my post operation feelings. I’m in a really good place.”
Birmingham City Legacy
Hughton spent one season at Birmingham City, their first after relegation from the Premier League. He led the club to the play-offs and a memorable Europa League campaign that remains a highlight for fans.
