As of today, **Tuesday, April 14, 2026**, there is no official report or confirmation from the BBC or any other reputable news outlet regarding the passing of Alex McLeish. In fact, recent reports show him actively involved in football discussions and health advocacy.
It is common for “death hoaxes” to circulate on social media involving high-profile figures. Unless a story is verified by a primary source like the BBC, the McLeish family, or Rangers FC, it should be treated as misinformation.
Instead of an obituary, here is an overview of why **Alex McLeish** remains one of the most respected figures in Scottish football history.
## ****The Legacy of “Big Eck”****
Alex McLeish’s impact on Scottish football is legendary, spanning an elite playing career and a trophy-laden managerial path. Known affectionately as “Big Eck,” he remains a towering figure for Aberdeen, Rangers, and the Scotland national team.
### ****The Glory Years at Aberdeen****
Before his managerial success, McLeish was a vital component of Sir Alex Ferguson’s “Great Aberdeen” side of the 1980s. Forming a formidable defensive partnership with Willie Miller, McLeish earned:
* **European Cup Winners’ Cup (1983):** Defeating Real Madrid in one of the greatest nights in Scottish club history.
* **Three Scottish Premier Division titles.**
* **Five Scottish Cups.**
### ****A Modern Hero at Ibrox****
McLeish arrived at **Rangers** in 2001, tasked with competing against a dominant Celtic side. He succeeded immediately, winning a cup double in his first half-season. His tenure was defined by the **Treble in 2002-2003**, a feat that solidified his place in Rangers folklore.
One of his greatest managerial achievements came in the **2005-2006 Champions League**, where he led Rangers to the knockout stages—the first time a Scottish club had reached that round in the modern era.
### ****National Service and Beyond****
McLeish served as Scotland manager on two separate occasions. His first stint in 2007 included a historic victory over France at the Parc des Princes, a result still celebrated by the Tartan Army today. He later moved to the English Premier League, famously leading **Birmingham City** to a League Cup victory in 2011.
### ****Health Advocacy****
In recent years, McLeish has used his platform to raise awareness about brain health and dementia in football. He has been a vocal supporter of classifying football-related neurological conditions as industrial injuries, ensuring that former players receive the care they deserve.
**Status Check:** Alex McLeish is a living legend of the game. If you see reports of his passing without a link to an official BBC article or club statement, they
are likely false.
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