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By Samuel A.   January 18, 2025

Manchester United and Scottish all time great, Denis Law, has passed on at the age of 84. Law, who won two league titles with United and was a member of their European Cup-winning side under Sir Matt Busby in 1968 when they became the first English club to lift the trophy, died on Friday. 

A statement from Law’s family read: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”

A Manchester United statement added: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84. With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players. The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’ family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”

Law, who is the only man to have two statues dedicated to him at Old Trafford, began his career at Huddersfield and had two spells at Manchester City as well as a stint in Serie A with Torino, but it was at Manchester United where Law made his name, collecting his first league winner’s medal in 1965 and finishing the season as the First Division’s top goalscorer. 

Law, who is the only Scotsman to win the Ballon d’Or, doing so in 1964, was also part of the United side that won the European Cup in 1968.

He scored a total of 237 goals in 404 appearances during an 11-year spell at Old Trafford until 1973, which places him third behind Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton on United’s all time list. Capped 55 times by Scotland, Law remains his country’s joint all time leading scorer with 30 goals alongside Kenny Dalglish.

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Scotland and Manchester United legend Denis Law,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

“He was a prolific goal scorer for club and country, most notably over a decade at Manchester United where he was a key part of teams which claimed domestic and European titles. My thoughts and condolences go to his former teammates, family, friends and all those who knew him.”

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