Sir Bobby Charlton, the legendary footballer who played a pivotal role in England's 1966 World Cup victory and enjoyed an illustrious career with Manchester United, has passed away at the age of 86.
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A football icon and record-breaker
Charlton, who earned 106 caps for England and scored 49 international goals, held national records for both appearances and goals at the time. During his 17-year tenure with Manchester United, he clinched three league titles, a European Cup, and an FA Cup, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history.
Charlton's family confirmed that he peacefully departed in the early hours of Saturday morning, surrounded by loved ones. Revered as "England's greatest player" and an undisputed legend, tributes from the football community continue to pour in, commemorating his remarkable career and exemplary sportsmanship.
Battle with dementia
In November 2020, Charlton's family revealed that he had been diagnosed with dementia, joining the ranks of fellow teammates Jack Charlton and Nobby Stiles, who also faced this condition. The family expressed their gratitude for the care Charlton received and requested privacy during this sorrowful time.
Manchester United paid homage to Charlton, acknowledging him as one of the greatest and most beloved players in the club's history. His sporting achievements, integrity, and service will forever be etched in the annals of Manchester United and English football. The club extended heartfelt condolences to Lady Norma, Charlton's wife, his daughters, grandchildren, and all those who cherished him.
Charlton's passing leaves Sir Geoff Hurst as the only remaining member of England's victorious 1966 World Cup team. Hurst, who scored a memorable hat-trick in the final against West Germany, expressed deep sadness at the loss of his colleague and dear friend, emphasizing Charlton's impact on and off the field.
Born in Ashington, Northumberland, on October 11, 1937, Charlton joined Manchester United as a schoolboy and made his first-team debut in 1956. Surviving the tragic Munich air crash in 1958, he became a beacon of hope during the club's rebuilding phase. Charlton played an instrumental role in United's first European Cup triumph in 1968 and received the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 1966.
'Early in my management, I knew I had to find a role suitable to Bobby’s unique talents. He wasn’t just a great goalscorer, with a blistering shot using either foot. Bobby was a player who could also do his share of hard work,' Sir Alf Ramsey said.
After leaving Manchester United in 1973, Charlton managed and played for Preston North End before moving into the boardroom at Wigan Athletic. In 1984, he became a director at Manchester United and later received a knighthood for his contributions to the sport. United's South Stand has renamed the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand in his honor in 2016.
The news of Charlton's passing has evoked sadness across the football world. The Football Association, England manager Gareth Southgate, and former England captain David Beckham expressed their grief, highlighting Charlton's immense impact on the game and his status as an undisputed legend.
Dementia in football
Charlton's diagnosis of dementia marked the fifth instance among the members of England's 1966 World Cup-winning team. Ray Wilson, Martin Peters, and Charlton's brother, Jack, had also battled the condition. The football community continues to raise awareness about the prevalence of dementia in the sport.
The passing of Sir Bobby Charlton marks the end of an era in English football. His legacy as a player, his contributions to Manchester United, and his pivotal role in England's World Cup triumph will forever be remembered and celebrated.
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