Sir Bobby Charlton death: Legendary 1966 World Cup winner and Man Utd hero dies aged 86

Bobby Charlton lifted the European Cup with Manchester United in 1968 (PA)

Charlton was an all-time great for Manchester United and England (PA)

Charlton, right, scores against Portugal in the 1966 World Cup semi-final (PA)

The Charlton brothers Jack and Bobby, embrace at the end of a charity match at Elland Road, Leeds, in 1985

Charlton subsequently managed Preston and, for almost four decades, was a United director. He was diagnosed with dementia, which his family announced in 2020.

United said in a statement: “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.

“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.”

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