Sir Bobby Charlton holds a place in many football fans’ hearts. For Manchester United fans it is his 758 appearances and 249 goals for them, helping them win 4 league titles and a European Cup.
For England fans he will always be remembered as a World Cup Winner with England in 1966, commanding the midfield, winning 106 caps.
English fans who do not support United respect him as a man who showed great loyalty to one club, spending all except his final couple of seasons with Manchester United. His strength to battle through the Munich air crash, with the loss of some great friends and then going on to achieve all that he did is seen as a tremendous accomplishment.
On Sunday at Old Trafford this man, who is a hero to so many, was honoured by Manchester United. The South Stand was renamed as the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand. Standing tall and looking fit as ever at 78 Sir Bobby looked quite emotional as the celebrations took place. Fans waved scarves, and shared their thoughts and memories of Sir Bobby on Social Media, as they celebrated the occasion.
For us at la Academia, we see Sir Bobby’s legacy in the youngsters who visit Manchester each year to learn English and play football with fellow “soccer” players from around the world. Sir Bobby founded the soccer camps 38 years ago. Although he is no longer directly involved with their running, the camps continue to spread his love of football and to inspire youngsters from around the world.
Past soccer camps have inspired players such as David Beckham to become professional footballers. Many other youngsters have taken steps on the road to a professional career, and have made friendships and learned English along the way. Find out more here:
La Academia is delighted to be part of this continuing tradition, started by one of England’s greatest football heroes!