Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton dies at 86

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 26: A statue showing George Best, Denis Law and Bobby Charlton is seen outside Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United FC, on March 26, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 26: A statue showing George Best, Denis Law and Bobby Charlton is seen outside Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United FC, on March 26, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away at the age of 86, his family have confirmed.

A statement by Manchester United on their website 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.”"

Sir Bobby won 3 FA Youth Cups, 3 league titles, European Cup and FA Cup with United and is widely considered as one of the greatest players to have donned the Red Devils shirt. He is synonymous with representing England as well, having been capped 106 times and won the World Cup in 1966 – capturing the Ballon d’Or that year as well.

The United icon has not been a public figure since 2020 after being diagnosed with dementia but was regularly seen attending games at Old Trafford for many years before it.

Having survived the Munich Disaster under Sir Matt Busby, he was the last surviving member of that fateful tragedy that is continuously remembered every year in February at United to this day.

Sir Bobby Charlton (1937-2023) will never be forgotten.