Sir Bobby Charlton during the match between Manchester United Legends and FC Barcelona Legends at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, September 2, 2017. /CFP
Sir Bobby Charlton during the match between Manchester United Legends and FC Barcelona Legends at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, September 2, 2017. /CFP
It is a cruel twist of fate that Sir Bobby Charlton, widely acclaimed as one of the greatest footballers in the world, would meet his untimely demise in such an unexpected manner.
After surviving the harrowing plane crash that claimed the lives of eight of his Manchester United teammates at the outset of his playing career, it seems almost ironic that he would ultimately succumb to an accidental fall at his Cheshire care home.
During the latest inquest into Sir Bobby’s death, it was revealed that on Wednesday night he tragically collided with a window sill and possibly a radiator, causing him to lose his balance after standing up from a chair. At the time of the incident, the care home staff performed a thorough examination of Sir Bobby’s body and found no visible injuries. They also noted that his mobility appeared unaffected.
Tributes to the late Sir Bobby Charlton next to his statue outside Old Trafford at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, October 29, 2023. /CFP
Tributes to the late Sir Bobby Charlton next to his statue outside Old Trafford at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, October 29, 2023. /CFP
However, they later noticed swelling on his back and promptly called for paramedics. Sir Bobby had been receiving respite care at the center since July. He was initially taken to a local hospital and later transferred to Macclesfield General Hospital.
Medical examinations, including a chest X-ray and CT scan, uncovered fractured ribs, which put him at risk of developing pneumonia. In light of the medical findings, doctors made the decision to transition Sir Bobby to end-of-life care. Sadly, the 86-year-old passed away five days later on October 21.
Charlton was an adored figure in the world of football, having played a pivotal role in England’s victorious 1966 World Cup campaign. As an indomitable legend, he rose through the ranks of United’s academy and went on to amass an impressive record of 758 appearances over a 17-year career at the club.
Fans display a giant banner in honor of the late Sir Bobby Charlton at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, October 29, 2023. /CFP
Fans display a giant banner in honor of the late Sir Bobby Charlton at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, October 29, 2023. /CFP
The Red Devils, deeply affected by his passing, described him as “a hero to millions, not just in Manchester or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.” Such was the impact of Charlton’s skill, dedication and achievements that his influence extended far beyond the boundaries of his home city and country, resonating with fans across the globe.
As per a statement released by United, a memorial service is slated to take place at Manchester Cathedral on November 13. The service will encompass a procession that will pass by Old Trafford, where devoted fans have already adorned the surroundings with heartfelt tributes. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with over 80,000 fans having signed a condolence book in honor of Charlton’s memory.
“The service will pay tribute to Sir Bobby’s incredible life as a husband, father, grandfather and, of course, as one of the finest footballers this country has ever produced,” said United. “The procession to the cathedral will pass by Old Trafford for a moment of reflection and provide an opportunity for fans to say a final farewell to a true Manchester United legend.
“The family will then hold a private funeral ceremony for Sir Bobby and have requested privacy around the arrangements for this,” the club added.
