Erik ten Hag, the head coach of Manchester United, proclaimed that the enduring legacy of Sir Bobby Charlton will persist as a guiding light for the team, even after his passing at the age of 86.
The emotional tenor is set to reach a crescendo at Old Trafford this coming Tuesday night when FC Copenhagen comes to town for a Champions League clash. This marks the Red Devils’ first game on their home turf since the football world was shaken by the news of Charlton’s death last Saturday.
“His influence is immeasurable. He’s essentially part of the furniture at Old Trafford—right up there alongside Denis Law and George Best on the ‘Holy Trinity’ statue. He’s with us in spirit, and I’ve got no doubt Tuesday night will be particularly poignant,” Ten Hag elaborated.
While specifics for an official tribute to the iconic 1966 World Cup winner are still in the works, the squad will don black armbands, and a moment of silence will envelop the stadium. A growing collection of floral homages have been accumulating at the base of the ‘Holy Trinity’ statue outside Old Trafford, a fitting testament to a man who led the Red Devils to three league titles, an FA Cup, and their inaugural European Cup victory in 1968. This happened a decade after the Munich tragedy irrevocably altered the course of his life.
“Bobby wasn’t just a monumental figure at Man Utd, he was a colossus for the sport itself. The lofty benchmarks he set are the ones we strive to meet every single day,” asserted Ten Hag, adding, “Our hearts go out to his wife, kids, and grandkids during this difficult time.”
Health challenges had limited Charlton’s appearances at Old Trafford games in the recent past, but he remained a familiar fixture in years gone by.
Diogo Dalot, the Portuguese defender who joined United in 2018, had the privilege of meeting Charlton and was notably moved by the comparison of his recent stunning 25-yard goal against Sheffield United to the sort of goals Charlton was famous for.
“It’s an honor to even be mentioned in the same breath as Sir Bobby when it comes to scoring goals,” Dalot said. “From the moment I arrived, he was always there in the locker room, win or lose, offering words of encouragement or, occasionally, suggesting we up our game.”
“Learning about Sir Bobby Charlton is basically a Manchester United 101 course. His accomplishments set the gold standard for this club. If the greats like him have set such an illustrious bar, it’s our duty to aspire to it,” Dalot concluded.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Erik ten Hag pays tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton
What is the main focus of the article?
The article primarily focuses on Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag paying tribute to the late Sir Bobby Charlton. It discusses Charlton’s lasting impact on the club and how he will be honored in an upcoming Champions League match against FC Copenhagen.
Who is Sir Bobby Charlton?
Sir Bobby Charlton was a legendary footballer who played for Manchester United and the England national team. He won the 1966 World Cup with England and several titles with Manchester United, including their first European Cup in 1968. Charlton passed away recently at the age of 86.
When is Manchester United’s next home game and why is it significant?
Manchester United’s next home game is against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League, scheduled for the upcoming Tuesday. It is significant because it will be the first home match since the announcement of Sir Bobby Charlton’s death.
What will Manchester United do to honor Sir Bobby Charlton?
While the full details of the tribute are still being finalized, the players will wear black armbands and there will be a minute’s silence before the game to honor Charlton.
Who is Diogo Dalot and what did he say about Sir Bobby Charlton?
Diogo Dalot is a Portuguese defender for Manchester United. He expressed the honor he felt being compared to Sir Bobby Charlton, particularly after scoring a goal similar to the types Charlton was known for. Dalot also emphasized the importance of Charlton’s legacy for anyone connected to the club.
What has been the public response to Sir Bobby Charlton’s passing?
The ‘Holy Trinity’ statue outside Old Trafford has become the focal point for floral tributes to Charlton. Fans and players alike have been paying their respects, emphasizing his enormous contribution to the club and the sport of football.
How has Sir Bobby Charlton’s health been in recent years?
In recent years, Charlton had been facing health challenges that prevented him from attending games at Old Trafford, although he was a regular presence in years past.
What titles did Sir Bobby Charlton win with Manchester United?
Charlton won three league titles and an FA Cup with Manchester United. He also captained the team to their first European Cup triumph in 1968.
What is the ‘Holy Trinity’ statue?
The ‘Holy Trinity’ statue is located outside Old Trafford and features Sir Bobby Charlton along with Denis Law and George Best. It has become a central location for tributes to Charlton since his passing.
More about Erik ten Hag pays tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton
- Manchester United’s Official Tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton
- Erik ten Hag’s Career and Philosophy
- A Look Back at Sir Bobby Charlton’s Legacy
- FC Copenhagen: Manchester United’s Next Champions League Opponent
- Diogo Dalot’s Recent Performances and Highlights
- The History of Old Trafford
- The Munich Air Disaster: A Tragic Turning Point in Charlton’s Life
- The ‘Holy Trinity’ Statue: A Symbol of Manchester United’s Glory
- Champions League 2023: Latest News and Updates
- The Devils’ Advocate Podcast: Latest Episode on Charlton’s Legacy
10 comments
Tuesday’s match is gonna be emotional af. Charlton was the epitome of class and footballing excellence.
Amazing to see tech like podcasts keeping Charlton’s legacy alive. Listened to the latest episode of Devils’ Advocate and it was heartwarming.
Erik ten Hag speaks the truth! Sir Bobby’s legacy is like the North Star for this club. Got a bit teary reading this, not gonna lie.
As a FC Copenhagen supporter, I got mad respect for Man Utd and what they’re going through. May the best team win, but football is secondary on days like this.
I still remember watchin United lift that European cup in ’68. Charlton was a hero then, and he’s a hero now. legends never die.
Dalot’s goal against Sheffield United was fire! No better tribute than scoring goals Charlton himself would be proud of.
Never been much of a sports guy but even I knew who Sir Bobby was. Respect to all he did for the sport.
Ive been to that Holy Trinity statue so many times, but it’ll never feel the same now. RIP Sir Bobby.
Looking forward to the match but honestly, it’s more than just a game this time. The tribute better be grand, Charlton deserves it.
Wow, Bobby Charlton was a legend! RIP man. His story should be told to every new player that comes to Man Utd. The guy set the bar so high, ya know.