Pranav Nair
Erik ten Hag pays his respects to late Manchester United legend Bobby Charlton
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag might be new to Old Trafford but even he would not have lost the impact Sir Bobby Charlton had on the club’s history.
The Manchester United and England legend passed away yesterday at the age of 86. He leaves behind a legacy of sportsmanship and footballing excellence that will be remembered for as long as the club stands.
Sir Bobby Charlton spent 17 years with the club, making 758 appearances and scoring 249 goals across all competitions. The footballing world has certainly lost another giant of the game with his passing yesterday.
Sir Bobby Charlton CBE, 1937-2023.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 21, 2023
Words will never be enough.
It was perhaps fitting that the Red Devils took to the field yesterday and got a chance to honour his memory on the field. Ten Hag’s side came through and secured a 2-1 win over Sheffield United thanks to a wonder strike from Diogo Dalot in the second half.
Speaking to Match of the Day after the match (h/t BBC), United boss Erik ten Hag paid his respects to the Manchester United icon. The Dutchman is aware of the magnanimity of the loss, not just to the Red Devils but to the footballing world as a whole.
He goes on to add that the club and its players had a chance to celebrate Sir Bobby Charlton and did just that with a win on the night.
“Very sad, our thoughts are with his family, especially his wife, his children and grandchildren.
What he achieved in football was immense. Also his personality off the pitch. The football world lost a big man.
We had to show our respect for him and I think we did that today. We wanted to celebrate but also to remember him.”
Sir Bobby also served as a director at the club for 39 years. His contributions to Manchester United’s rise as a footballing giant cannot be overstated and the Old Trafford faithful will always remember him with fondness.
The 86-year-old is survived by his wife, daughters and grandchildren. We express our sincere condolences to them at this moment of grief.
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Ten Hag and Co are better served leading the club to a trophy this season to commemorate Sir Bobby’s memory. What better way to honour the club legend than to usher in another era of dominance for the club that he poured his heart and soul into?
