England World Cup winner and Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away aged 86. Sir Bobby is widely known as one of the country’s greatest-ever footballers, lifting the World Cup, European Cup and First Division and winning the Ballon d’Or in 1966 after surviving the Munich Air Disaster in 1958.
Sir Bobby’s family have confirmed the news, announcing that his loved ones surrounded the footballing great as he died on Saturday morning.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was surrounded by his family,” they said in a statement.
“His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and to the many people who have loved and supported him. We would request that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”
A Manchester United statement read: “Manchester United are in mourning following the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club.
“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.
“He was admired as much for his sportsmanship and integrity as he was for his outstanding qualities as a footballer; Sir Bobby will always be remembered as a giant of the game.
“The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.”
Sir Bobby graduated from United’s youth academy before scoring 249 goals in 758 appearances, cementing a legacy that will live on for eternity.
The English great spent 17 years as a United superstar, winning the FA Cup as well as three league titles and the European Cup.
His prestige extended into his international career, earning 106 England caps and netting 49 goals, helping the nation lift that historic World Cup in 1966.
Sir Bobby’s impact continued off the pitch after his retirement, serving as a United club director for 39 years and making a significant difference outside of football through the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation.
He will be forever etched in United folklore, positioned as part of the ‘Holy Trinity’ statue alongside Denis Law and George Best in Old Trafford forecourt.
United also renamed Old Trafford’s South Stand the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand to pay tribute to arguably the club’s most famous player.
Erik ten Hag’s players will wear black armbands during their Premier League clash against Sheffield United on Saturday night to pay tribute to Sir Bobby. A minute’s silence will also be observed before kick-off at Bramall Lane.
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