‘A gentleman – and a true great’

‘Very sad to hear of the death of Sir Bobby Charlton. He has a place in history as one of the game’s greatest players and was hugely loved. Rest in peace, Sir Bobby.’

RISHI SUNAK

‘Very sad news today. We will never forget him and nor will all of football. A great colleague and friend, he will be sorely missed by all of the country beyond sport alone. Condolences to his family and friends.’

1966 TEAMMATE GEOFF HURST

‘Sir Bobby Charlton. First Division Champion. European Champion. World Champion. Gentleman. Legend. A true great who will be remembered for ever. Thank you, Sir Bobby.’

PRINCE WILLIAM

‘It all began with Sir Bobby. Sir Bobby was the reason I had the opportunity to play for Manchester United. I will forever be grateful to a man, someone I looked up to and was a hero to many around the world, not just in Manchester and our country where he won the World Cup in 1966. A true gentleman, family man and truly a national hero... Today is not just a sad day for Manchester United and England, it’s a sad day for football and everything that Sir Bobby represented.’

FORMER UNITED AND ENGLAND MIDFIELDER DAVID BECKHAM

‘One of our most iconic players, Sir Bobby Charlton’s impact on our only World Cup triumph is there for all to see. The privilege of meeting him on several occasions allowed me to understand his personal pride and emotion in having represented England and simply confirmed in my mind his standing as one of the gentlemen of the game. The world of football will unite in its sadness at losing an undisputed legend.’

ENGLAND MANAGER GARETH SOUTHGATE

‘The Greatest English football player and Manchester United’s greatest ambassador. A champion on and off the pitch and a Busby Babe that paved the way for all to come at United. Rest In peace, Sir Bobby.’

FORMER UNITED AND ENGLAND DEFENDER GARY NEVILLE

‘A truly wonderful footballer and genuinely lovely man. A World Cup winner, Man Utd great and, for me, England’s greatest ever player.’

FORMER ENGLAND FORWARD GARY LINEKER ‘On behalf of FIFA, and the global football family, I send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sir Bobby Charlton.’

FIFA PRESIDENT GIANNI INFANTINO