Manchester United and England legend Bobby Charlton has died at the age of 86, the club confirmed on Saturday.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed away peacefully on Saturday morning. He was surrounded by his family.”, reads out a statement from the football legend’s inner circle.
“His family would like to thank everyone who contributed to his care and to the many people who loved and supported him. We ask that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”.
Charlton came through the youth sections of the Manchester United And just sixteen months after his debut, Bobby Charlton lost eight of his teammates in the Munich air tragedy, an experience he remembered to his dying day. He became the epitome of United’s struggle to recover from the blow and return to the top, thanks to his elegant playing style and determination to succeed. Sir Bobby is a Manchester United legend.
The former striker scored 249 goals in 758 appearances for the Red Devils and won three league titles and the FA Cup. He also won the European Cup with Manchester United in 1968, scoring twice in a 4-1 final victory over Benfica.
United also paid heartfelt tribute to Charlton and sent their condolences to his family.
Manchester United is in mourning following the death of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest and most beloved players in our club’s history. reads a statement.
“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions of people, not just in Manchester or Britain, but everywhere in the world where football is played.
“Sir Bobby is admired as much for his sportsmanship and integrity as for his outstanding qualities as a footballer and will always be remembered as a giant of the game.
“A graduate of our youth academy, Sir Bobby played 758 games and scored 249 goals during 17 years as a Manchester United player, winning the European Cup, three league titles and the FA Cup. For England he won 106 caps and scored 49 goals for England and won the 1966 World Cup.
“After his retirement, he served the club with distinction as a director for 39 years. His unrivaled record of performance, character and service will be forever etched in the history of Manchester United and English football; and his legacy will live on throughout life.” -changing work of the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation.
“The club’s deepest condolences go out to his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.”
Charlton was also a key figure for England, earning 106 caps for the Three Lions. He was also part of the team that won the 1966 World Cup, beating Germany in the final at Wembley.
Source: Goal