Man Utd's emotional Bobby Charlton statement in full as club legend dies aged 86

21 October 2023 , 15:16

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Sir Bobby Charlton has died at the age of 86 (Image: Getty Images)

Manchester United have paid tribute to club legend Sir Bobby Charlton after his death was sadly announced on Saturday afternoon.

It was announced back in November 2020 that Sir Bobby, who scored 249 goals in 758 appearances for United, had been diagnosed with dementia, while he was too unwell to attend the funeral of his brother, Gordon, who passed away last December.

Sir Bobby's family confirmed the news on Saturday in a statement which read: “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.

“His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him. We would request that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”

Manchester United responded to the news with a statement of their own. The statement in full reads: “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.

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“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.

“A graduate of our youth Academy, Sir Bobby played 758 games and scored 249 goals during 17 years as a Manchester United player, winning the European Cup, three league titles and the FA Cup. For England, he won 106 caps and scored 49 goals for England, and won the 1966 World Cup.

“Following his retirement, he went on to serve the club with distinction as a director for 39 years. His unparalleled record of achievement, character and service will be forever etched in the history of Manchester United and English football; and his legacy will live on through the life-changing work of the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation.

“The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.”

Dan Marsh