Nobby Stiles passes away

An integral part of our first-ever European Cup-winning side, Nobby was a titan of the club’s history, cherished for his heart and personality on and off the pitch.

He will be sorely missed by us all.

A product of the famed United youth system, Nobby broke into the first team at the start of the 1960s, and finished it as the only Mancunian to have won both of football's most prestigious trophies, having also played in England's 1966 World Cup success.

A famously pugnacious midfielder, he was at the heartbeat of the sublime United side of the mid-60s alongside George Best, Bobby Charlton and Denis Law, where he formed a combative midfield partnership with Pat Crerand.

He made 395 appearances for the club between 1960 and 1971, and scored 19 goals before departing to join Middlesbrough.

Nobby's United story didn't end with the culmination of his playing days, however. After managing Preston North End, Vancouver Whitecaps and West Brom, he was invited back to the club in the late 1980s by Sir Alex Ferguson. Along with legendary coach Eric Harrison, he would play a pivotal role in developing some of the club's greatest players, such as Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

TRIBUTES TO NOBBY

Many in the football world, including countless former Reds, have already reacted to Nobby's passing with their own personal thoughts on the great man. You can read some of their tributes below.

Denis Law: “I’m so desperately saddened by this news. Nobby was a top player and a top man. He was such a popular guy in the dressing room. Everyone knew Nobby would be there when the going got tough on the pitch, but you shouldn’t underestimate what a good footballer he was too. I played against him in training and for Scotland against England and all I can say is I’m glad he was my teammate more often than my opponent.”

Gary Neville: “Rest in Peace Nobby. Thank you for all you did for us. You taught us how to fight for everything in that red shirt . 'Your studs are your best friends out there.'”

Mike Phelan: “RIP Nobby Stiles a great man for club and country. Thank you for everything you brought to this life Nobby you will be fondly remembered and sadly missed.”

Nicky Butt: "He was my first United coach at 13, an icon of the club, and a god-like figure, massive for all of us who came through the youth team. He was amazing, a World Cup winner but probably the most humble man I’ve ever met. It’s a sad day for all of the people at the club and everyone in the country given what he did with England as well."
 
Robbie Savage: “Extremely saddened by the death of Nobby Stiles. As a 16-year-old boy at Manchester United, it was a privilege to be coached by a legend of the game and a true gentleman. His advice and guidance helped me throughout my career and my thoughts and condolences go to his family. RIP.”