Home Football David Beckham admits ‘I will be forever grateful’ to Man United legend

David Beckham admits ‘I will be forever grateful’ to Man United legend

Football — 10/22/2023

David Beckham admits ‘I will be forever grateful’ to Man United legend and ‘national hero’ Bobby Charlton – who the ex-Three Lions skipper reveals gave him ‘the opportunity to play’ for the Red Devils

David Beckham has expressed his heartfelt condolences following the passing of the legendary Sir Bobby Charlton, who sadly died at the age of 86 on Saturday. Charlton, widely regarded as one of the most illustrious figures in the history of English football, had been battling dementia.
Sir Bobby Charlton’s remarkable career spanned over several decades, during which he made an astounding 758 appearances for Manchester United. He also donned the England jersey over 100 times, leaving an indelible mark on the national team.
As news of Charlton’s passing broke, former football star David Beckham took to Instagram to share his condolences and cherished memories of the footballing icon. In his post, Beckham included a heartfelt photo of himself with Sir Bobby from his own childhood, expressing gratitude to the man he was honored to be named after.
The footballing community mourns the loss of Sir Bobby Charlton, a true legend whose impact on the sport will be remembered and revered for generations to come.

Bobby Charlton and David Beckham in the Royal Box in the 2014 Wimbledon Championships

Bobby Charlton and David Beckham in the Royal Box in the 2014 Wimbledon Championships

Beckham shared a photo from Beckham's childhood, thanking the man he was 'named after'

Beckham shared a photo from Beckham’s childhood, thanking the man he was ‘named after’

David Beckham and Sir Bobby Charlton, who both have over 100 caps for England, pose on the pitch at half time during a presentation of a commemorative cap and medal during the International Friendly match between England and Belgium at Wembley Stadium on June 2

During the International Friendly match between England and Belgium at Wembley Stadium on June 2, a special moment occurred when David Beckham and Sir Bobby Charlton, both of whom have earned over 100 caps for England, posed together on the pitch during halftime. The occasion marked a commemorative cap and medal presentation.

In a heartfelt tribute, Beckham expressed his gratitude to Sir Bobby, acknowledging that his opportunity to play for Manchester United stemmed from him. He emphasized Sir Bobby’s influential role as the reason behind his association with the club. Beckham also recognized Sir Bobby’s status as a global hero, not only for his achievements with Manchester United but also for winning the 1966 World Cup, a significant milestone for England. He described Sir Bobby as a true gentleman, a family man, and a national hero, expressing his sadness not only for Manchester United and England but for the entire football community, as Sir Bobby represented everything that was admirable about the sport. Beckham extended his condolences to Lady Norma, Sir Bobby’s daughters, and grandchildren, while bidding farewell to the legendary figure.

Sir Bobby Charlton enjoyed an extraordinary career, setting records with both England and Manchester United. His achievements in the 1960s included winning the World Cup and the European Cup. Beckham disclosed that he was named after Sir Bobby and that his middle name, Robert, was given in honor of him. Sir Bobby held the directorship position at Manchester United when the club signed a young David Beckham at the age of 14 in 1991. Beckham’s talent had already gained recognition earlier when he made a name for himself at the Bobby Charlton Soccer & Sports Academy.

Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton during the Edwin van der Sar Testimonial match

Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton during the Edwin van der Sar Testimonial match

Charlton, arguably the most distinguished player in English football history, has died aged 86

Sir Bobby Charlton, widely regarded as one of the most distinguished players in English football history, has sadly passed away at the age of 86. The iconic football figure, who made an impressive 758 appearances for his club and earned 106 caps for his beloved country, peacefully departed this morning in the presence of his family.

Survived by his wife Lady Norma, their daughters Suzanne and Andrea, and his cherished grandchildren, Sir Bobby leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of football.

Recently, David Beckham’s documentary “Beckham,” released on Netflix, explored his time at Manchester United and showcased his deep admiration for Charlton.

The family released a statement confirming Sir Bobby’s passing, expressing their profound sadness. They revealed that the revered legend, a key member of the victorious England team in the 1966 World Cup, passed away early in the morning, surrounded by loved ones. The statement also conveyed the family’s gratitude to those involved in Sir Bobby’s care and to the countless individuals who have shown their love and support during this difficult time. The family respectfully requested privacy as they navigate through their loss.