Charlton, who suffers from dementia, was part of the England squad that won the world title in his own country in 1966. That year he also received the Golden Ball as the world’s best footballer. Charlton played 106 times for the national team. With 49 goals, he even became England’s all-time top scorer until 2015. He is the younger brother of Jack Charlton, who died in 2020, who was also a member of England’s champion team and later became Ireland’s national coach.

17 years at United

Bobby Charlton played almost his entire professional career at Manchester United. In 1956 he made his debut in the main squad at the age of 18. He would appear in 758 games and score 249 goals during his seventeen years at the club. With this club he won three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and European Cup 1 in 1968. Charlton scored two goals in the final against Benfica.

Charlton was praised for his attacking spirit, ball skills and devastating long-range shots. The Ashington-born football icon is also known for his incredible fitness and stamina. He’s also a good player; he was rarely charged by arbitration.

‘Giants of the game’

“Sir Bobby was one of the greatest and most loved players in our club’s history. He was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester and England, but wherever football is played around the world,” United said on the club website. “He was admired for his sportsmanship and integrity as well as his outstanding qualities as a footballer; Sir Bobby will always be remembered as a giant of the game.”

Charlton was also one of the survivors of the February 1958 air disaster at Munich Airport. The entire Manchester United squad was on board the plane, which crashed while trying to take off. Many team players were killed. Goalkeeper Harry Gregg saved Charlton from goal.

Board member

After his active career, Charlton remained linked with Manchester United. He was part of the board for 39 years. “His unrivaled achievements, character and service will forever be etched in the history of Manchester United and English football,” United said.