Sir Bobby Charlton: Manchester United legend, who helped them win Premier League, European Cup, FA Cup
Manchester United legend and a key figure in England's 1966 World Cup victory, Sir Bobby Charlton died on Saturday at the age of 86. He appeared in 106 matches for England and scored 49 international goals and set a record for his country at the time. He won three league titles, a European Cup and an FA Cup for Manchester United.
Manchester United pay tribute
Manchester United paid tribute to their legend and described him as «one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club». In a statement, United said, «Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.»
Hurst calls Charlton 'great colleague'
Sir Geoff Hurst, the striker who scored a hat-trick in England's 4-2 win over West Germany in the 1966 final, called him a «great colleague and friend».
Fondly remembering him, Hurst wrote on social media platform X, «Very sad news today. One of the true Greats Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away. We will never forget him and nor will all of football. A great colleague and friend, he will be sorely missed by all of the country beyond sport alone. Condolences to his family and friends.»
Bobby Charlton joined United in 1953
Sir Bobby Charlton was born in Northumberland on October 11, 1937. He joined Manchester United as a schoolboy in 1953 and turned professional the next year. He made his first-team debut against Charlton Athletic in October 1956, age the age of 18.
Bobby Charlton helped Manchester United to clinch the first European Cup in 1968, he scored twice in the final against Benfica. He received the Ballon d'Or in 1966. Charlton scored 249 goals in 758 games before leaving United in May 1973. These records
