Denis Law

Tributes pour in for legend Law

Saturday 18 January 2025 09:15

Tributes for the wonderful Denis Law have flooded in after the sad news of his death was released on Friday evening.

An inspiration to an army of football fans, the iconic ex-Manchester United striker was a world-class footballer who, off the field, charmed anyone who came into contact with him.

You only need to talk to those who saw him in his pomp, terrorising defenders and finding the net for fun, to appreciate just how good the Ballon d'Or winner truly was.

A generous and warm man, he remained very much part of the United family following his retirement from the game and was an absolute joy to work with in his role as an ambassador.

It is little wonder that many people within the sport reacted with sadness but real respect when hearing of his passing, at the age of 84.

Denis Law obituary: 1940-2025

 Article

The ultimate goalscorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation.

Alex Stepney (goalkeeper and former team-mate):

"So sad to hear that Denis has passed away. Nothing less than a giant of the game and I'm proud to have been his team-mate and friend. God bless Den, rest in peace."

Paddy Crerand (midfielder and former team-mate):

"Denis was a great friend, and one of the best players they ever had at Old Trafford. What a player he was. He was very intelligent on the pitch; quick as lightning. What a great lad he was off the pitch. There were no airs and graces to Denis, he was just an ordinary lad like everybody else. There are quite a few players today that are special players, but Denis was a special, special player."

Eric Cantona (another legendary Reds goalscorer):

"Rest in peace Denis. You were one of those who helped me feel at home in Manchester United. Thank you my friend!"

Wayne Rooney (another legendary United goalscorer):

"Legend. Thoughts with all Denis’ family and friends."

Gary Neville (former Reds captain):

"Rest in peace, Denis. A great footballer and a great man. It's a privilege and an honour to have spent time in your company. The King of the Stretford End."

David Beckham (former United midfielder):

"Tonight we lost a true gentleman of the game. Our heart goes out to Denis's family. "Our hearts are heavy tonight. A legend on the field but the perfect gentleman off."

Lee Sharpe (ex-United winger):

"Sad to hear about the passing of Denis Law, a true icon and an irreplaceable part of Manchester United's history. I was lucky enough to share a few beers with him and his family in Portugal years ago. He was so charismatic yet so humble with a great sense of humour. They don’t make them like that anymore. My thoughts are with his wife Diane and all his family."

Paul McGuinness (former FA Youth Cup-winning coach and son of ex-manager Wilf):

"Denis was so charismatic but humble at the same time - full of mischief in a quiet but supremely confident way. All the real greats I’ve met just have that aura. He takes his place in the pantheon of greats. Sympathies to the Law family from all the McGuinness family."

Mickey Thomas (ex-United winger):

"One of the greats of world football - the King Denis Law RIP."

John Shiels MBE (Manchester United Foundation Chief Executive):

"For someone who many regarded as the King, he was one of the most humble people I knew. So grounded, really lovely company, but great - in every sense of the word. Rest in peace, Denis." 

Clive Tyldesley (commentator):

"You only really have one boyhood hero. RIP Denis. Thank you for being so special."

David De Gea and Andy Cole were among the first to post their love for the Scotsman on social media.

Denis's other former clubs - Huddersfield Town, Torino and Manchester City, also shared their thoughts on their ex-striker.

Huddersfield Town: "All at Huddersfield Town are profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of Denis Law. A legend of not only our great lub, but an immortal of the sport as a whole, he will be deeply missed and his memory cherished by us all. Our collective thoughts are with Denis’ family and loved ones at this time. Once a Terrier, always a Terrier."

Torino: President Urbano Cairo and the entire Torino Football Club remember with emotion and affection, Denis Law. Former Granata player in the 1961/62 season, an absolute champion."

Manchester City: "The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you. Rest in peace, Denis. Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this difficult time."

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    It is with great sadness that we report the King of the Stretford End's death, aged 84.

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