Sir Bobby Charlton, the Manchester United legend who was a key figure in England's 1966 World Cup victory, has died at the age of 86. Charlton won 106 caps for England and scored 49 international goals — records for his country at the time. During a 17-year first-team career with United he won three league titles, a European Cup and an FA Cup. Charlton's family said he "passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning". In November 2020, it was announced Charlton had been diagnosed with dementia. He died surrounded by his family, who said in a statement they wished 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," their statement added. United paid a fond tribute to Charlton, describing him as "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," the club said. "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. "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." His death leaves Sir Geoff Hurst —the striker who scored a hat-trick in England's 4-2 win over West Germany in the 1966 final — as the sole surviving member of the triumphant team. Charlton's older brother Jack, who died in July 2020, and their fellow World Cup winner Nobby Stiles, who passed away in October 2020, had also both been diagnosed with dementia. FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered this tribute to Sir Bobby: "On behalf of FIFA, and the global football family, I send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sir Bobby Charlton. "We mourn the loss of one of England's 1966 FIFA World Cup winning team and a football legend, whose impact on the game spanned generations. "Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was close to him, his former teammates, The Football Association and Manchester United. Rest In Peace." Former England captain and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker too reacted to the news of Sir Bobby's death. He posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: "Deeply saddened to hear that Sir Bobby Charlton has died. A truly wonderful footballer and genuinely lovely man. "A World Cup winner, Manchester United great and, for me, England's greatest ever player. He may no longer be with us but he'll have footballing immortality. RIP Sir Bobby." Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville too paid tribute. He posted on X, formerly known as 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." — BBC
