Sir Bobby Charlton, the revered figure of Manchester United and English football, has passed away at 86, as announced by his family. Charlton’s legacy is monumental, marked by 249 goals in 758 appearances for Manchester United from 1956 to 1973, including a European Cup triumph in 1968 and three First Division titles. He held England’s goal-scoring record (49 goals in 106 caps) from 1970 to 2015.
In 2020, Charlton was diagnosed with dementia, prompting his withdrawal from matches at Old Trafford. His European Cup victory came a decade after surviving the 1958 Munich air disaster, which claimed the lives of eight teammates. He notably played in the World Cup final with his late brother Jack.
Manchester United hailed Charlton as “one of the greatest and most beloved players in the club’s history.” He played 758 games, scored 249 goals, and secured numerous titles during his 17-year tenure. Post-retirement, he served the club as a director for 39 years. Knighted in 1994, his contributions to football are celebrated globally.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino lauded Charlton’s enduring impact on the game, while Gary Lineker hailed him as “England’s greatest ever player.” Sir Bobby Charlton leaves an indelible mark on football, and his legacy will endure through the work of the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation.
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