Sir Bobby’s family gave their blessing to disclose the information
Sir Bobby Charlton has been diagnosed with dementia at the age of 83, his family have confirmed.
The news comes just days after his former England teammate and fellow World Cup winner Nobby Stiles, who also had dementia, passed away.
Sir Bobby survived the tragic Munich Air Disaster in 1958, and went on to win the World Cup with England and the European Cup with Manchester United in 1968 as a member of the legendary Busby Babes.
Sir Bobby held Manchester United’s all time goal record with 249 goals in 758 games, and England’s all time goal record with 49 in 106 games before both were broken by Wayne Rooney – an incredible feat for a midfielder.
His family are hoping the news of his diagnosis will help others, as football’s governing bodies come under greater pressure to reduce the risks of repeated head trauma in the game.
His brother Jack Charlton also suffered from dementia and passed away in July. A documentary film about Jack’s life will be released on November 6th.
