England and Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton passed away at the age of 86.
With 249 goals in 758 appearances for Manchester United between 1956 and 1973, Charlton is regarded as one of the team’s all-time greatest players. In 1968, he won three First Division championships with United in addition to the European Cup.
The 1966 World Cup champion made 106 appearances for England and scored 49 goals, a record he held from 1970 to 2015.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning,” a statement from his family read.
“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 also honored Charlton, whom they referred to as “one of the greatest and most beloved players in the club’s history”.
“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world,” a club statement read.
“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.
Following, some Manchester United players both (former and current) have paid their tribute to the club legend Sir Bobby Charlton on X (formerly Twitter)
So sorry to hear the news of Sir Bobby Charlton. The Greatest English Football player and Manchester United’s greatest ambassador. A champion on and off the pitch and a Busby Babe that paved the way for all to come at United. Rest In Peace Sir Bobby ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/WTkkulOijq
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) October 21, 2023
Saddened to hear of the passing of one of the greatest players our sport has ever seen. A true Manchester United legend and an amazing person. Rest in peace, Sir Bobby 💔 pic.twitter.com/v2Bqh8s2i4
— Peter Schmeichel (@Pschmeichel1) October 21, 2023
European Cup winner, World Cup winner, Ballon d'Or winner and one of the greatest Manchester United players of all time. Lifting the European Cup of 1968 with Red Devils was an absolute milestone for the legendary history of our club.
Rest In Peace Sir Bobby Charlton 🙏 pic.twitter.com/li7W1soZ44
— Casemiro (@Casemiro) October 21, 2023
A legend and true pillar of Manchester United, whenever people think of the club around the world, they think of Sir Bobby Charlton. You will be missed throughout football. RIP. pic.twitter.com/3kFIhgPecF
— David de Gea (@D_DeGea) October 21, 2023
Meanwhile, other football clubs and the Premier League have equally paid their tribute following the passing of the former World Cup winner with England in 1966.
Rest in peace, Sir Bobby Charlton. A true footballing great whose legacy will live on.
The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Sir Bobby’s family, friends and everyone at Manchester United.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 21, 2023
We at FC Barcelona would like to send our condolences to the family and friends of Sir Bobby Charlton, the Manchester United and world football legend.
Rest in peace 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Vq983dTrOt
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 21, 2023
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton.
Our thoughts are with Sir Bobby’s family, friends and everyone connected with Manchester United at this time.
May he rest in peace ❤️ pic.twitter.com/C1tYUb3x0r
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 21, 2023
Everyone at Chelsea Football Club is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his family, friends and those at Manchester United at this difficult time. 💙 pic.twitter.com/fNRuPo1vIF
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 21, 2023
The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest players in English football history.
Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to Sir Bobby’s family and friends, and to all at Manchester United. pic.twitter.com/8jMnS3qJIG— Premier League (@premierleague) October 21, 2023
Although Preston North End was where Charlton played and managed, Manchester United is the team with which his club career is most closely associated.
He has received praise for being “a true legend of our game.”
