- Sir Alex Ferguson attended Sir Bobby Charlton’s funeral in Manchester
- Afterwards, Ferguson praised football as a ‘fantastic man’
- Sporting greats past and present also attended the memorial service
Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson paid a moving tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton on Monday after attending the football legend’s funeral.
Charlton’s family and United supporters and players, both past and present, joined a thousand mourners in saying their final farewell to the all-time great player on an emotional day.
Crowds lined the streets to watch Charlton’s funeral procession arrive at Old Trafford, where it was greeted with applause, before traveling on to Manchester Cathedral.
Charlton, who played 758 games for United, died last month aged 86.
A host of leading figures from across the football world, including Charlton’s close friend Ferguson, attended the service and paid their respects.
Sir Alex Ferguson paid a moving tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton after attending his funeral
Charlton’s family and friends, as well as United players and supporters, paid their respects
“It was very bleak,” Ferguson told Sky Sports. ‘I thought one of his grandson’s tributes was fantastic.
“It’s not easy to go there and talk. The speakers did an excellent job.
‘He was a wonderful man. I’m here at United because of Bobby Charlton.’
He added: “The day I came, he supported me 100 percent. He was completely behind me and everything we were trying to do with the youth.
“I’m here because of Bobby Charlton.”
The procession passed by the East Stand at Old Trafford and the iconic United Trinity statue, depicting Charlton, George Best and Denis Law.
Representatives of United’s youth teams formed a guard of honor around the statue.
A red, white and black scarf was draped around Charlton’s neck, which was the center of many floral tributes left by the supporters.
The service in the cathedral was led by Canon Nigel Ashworth and included eulogies from family and club figures. It remains private and is not filmed.
Among those paying tribute were former United chief executive David Gill, former Manchester United Foundation chief executive John Shiels and members of Charlton’s family.
Ferguson described Charlton as a ‘fantastic man’ and thanked him for his long-term support
Charlton regularly offered his support to Ferguson during his 26-year reign at United
Charlton’s funeral procession passed the ‘Trinity’ statue of Charlton, George Best and Denis Law
Lady Norma Charlton and family left Manchester Cathedral after the funeral service
A red, white and black scarf was placed around Charlton’s neck outside Old Trafford
Bouquets on top of Charlton’s coffin in the hearse were visible as it passed Old Trafford
Hymns included Abide With Me, traditionally sung before the FA Cup final, Jerusalem and a rendition of How Great Thou Art by opera singer Russell Watson.
Tens of thousands of mourners signed a book of condolence opened at Old Trafford following Charlton’s tragic death in the early hours of October 21.
Charlton, who battled dementia in his later years, died after an accidental fall at a care home in Knutsford, Cheshire, coroners later ruled.
He is survived by his wife Lady Norma, their two daughters and grandchildren.
Charlton had withdrawn from public life following his dementia diagnosis in late 2020.