What Was Bobby Charlton's Net Worth?
Bobby Charlton was an English professional soccer player who had a notable net worth of $25 million upon his passing in 2023. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Charlton was a key member of the England team that claimed victory in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, and he spent the majority of his club career with Manchester United.
Early Life
Sir Robert Charlton CBE was born on October 11, 1937, in Ashington, Northumberland, England to Robert and Elizabeth Charlton. His deep roots in soccer began at a young age, being encouraged by his family, which included several professional soccer players on his mother's side. His elder brother, Jack Charlton, also transitioned from a coal miner to a professional soccer player.
Career
Manchester United and Club Career
Spotted at age 15 by Manchester United's chief scout, Joe Armstrong, Bobby Charlton joined the club in January 1953. After ascending through the ranks, he made his first-team debut in 1956, scoring twice. Tragically, Charlton survived the Munich air disaster in 1958, which claimed the lives of several teammates. Charlton’s career spanned from 1956 to 1973 at Manchester United, where he scored 199 goals in 606 appearances. His record of 758 appearances was only surpassed by Ryan Giggs in 2008.
International Career
Charlton's international career was equally impressive. He earned his first cap in a 1958 British Home Championship match against Scotland. Over his international tenure, Charlton scored 49 goals in 106 matches and played in four World Cups. His performance in the 1966 World Cup was pivotal in securing England's title.
Post-Manchester United Career
After leaving Manchester United, Charlton played and coached Preston North End, before becoming a director at Wigan Athletic. He later joined Manchester United's board of directors in 1984. Among his numerous accolades are the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball, a place in the FIFA 100, and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award.
Achievements and Honors
Bobby Charlton was knighted in 1994, received an OBE in 1969, and was made a CBE in 1974. He contributed significantly both on and off the field, including in business ventures related to travel, jewelry, and charity work aimed at supporting hospitals and land mine clearance.
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Personal Life and Death
Bobby met his future wife, Norma Bell, in 1959, and they were married in 1961, having two daughters together. Charlton dedicated much of his time to charitable activities, including the establishment of his own charity, Find a Better Way, which funds research for improved landmine clearance.
In November 2020, it became public that Charlton had been diagnosed with dementia. Bobby Charlton passed away due to complications from dementia on October 21, 2023, at the age of 86. Manchester United honored him with tributes during a match shortly after his death, where players wore black armbands, and a minute of silence was observed.
