English soccer star and Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away at the age of 86.

“We are saddened to announce the passing of one of the greatest men in the history of Manchester United and English football, Sir Bobby Charlton. He was a hero to young and old alike, and his passing will be mourned throughout the United Kingdom and around the world where football is played,” the club said in a statement on its official website.

The BBC also reported the news of Charlton’s death, saying, “His family said in a statement that they wanted to thank everyone who contributed to his care and the many people who loved and supported him.”

Charlton played for United for 17 years. In total, he made 758 appearances and scored 249 goals. This record was later surpassed by Ryan Giggs in 2008 and Wayne Rooney in 2017. He won three different cup competitions.

He also played for the England national team. He made 106 appearances for the national team, scoring 49 goals. He was also a key part of England’s 1966 World Cup victory.

He continued to play for the club until 1973, when he retired. He then spent two years as manager and player at Preston North End. He didn’t have much success as a manager and later spent the rest of his playing career with Waterford United in Ireland.

He then served as a director at Wigan Athletic in the English third tier before joining the board of United in 1984. Ten years later, in 1994, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

In his later years, he was a frequent visitor to Old Trafford with his wife and remained a favorite of United fans. In November 2020, it was announced that Charlton had been diagnosed with dementia. After a long battle with the disease, he took his own life three years later.

United expressed their condolences on Charlton’s death. United players wore black armbands to the 토토 game against Sheffield Wednesday at 4 a.m. on April 22, and a minute’s silence was held before kickoff to honor Charlton.

Legend David Beckham said: “It’s a sad day, not just for Manchester United, but for football and all that Sir Charlton stood for. Our hearts are heavy today.” Gary Neville also offered his condolences, saying, “He was a constant in both of the club’s golden eras.”