Sir Bobby Charlton, England’s 1966 World Cup hero, has died at the age of 86.
The former Manchester United legend died on Saturday, October 21, barely a week after celebrating his birthday, after a battle with dementia.
His brother Jack, who died in July 2020 at the age of 85, had also suffered from the disease in his later years.
Gordon, his other brother, died in January at the age of 79 following a struggle with cancer and dementia.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning,” the family said in a statement.
“He was surrounded by his loved ones.” His family would like to thank everyone who helped with his care as well as the many people who loved and supported him.
“We would request that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”
Manchester United also paid their tribute to the great, stating that the club is in grief as a result of the news.
“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world,” Manchester United said in a statement.
Sir Bobby featured in the Three Lions’ 1966 World Cup victory and went on to win the Ballon d’Or later that year.
He also scored 249 goals in 758 games for Manchester United, helping them win the European Cup for the first time in 1968.
Despite playing as a midfielder, he scored 49 goals in 106 games for England.
