Denis Law, Manchester United & Scotland Legend, Dies at 84

Denis Law, the iconic Scottish footballer renowned for his prolific goal-scoring and charismatic presence, passed away on January 17, 2025, at the age of 84. Affectionately dubbed “The King” and “The Lawman,” Law’s illustrious career left an indelible mark on both Manchester United and the Scotland national team.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on February 24, 1940, in Aberdeen, Scotland, Denis Law overcame a modest upbringing to embark on a remarkable football journey. He began his professional career with Huddersfield Town in 1956, where his talent quickly became evident. In 1960, he moved to Manchester City for a British record transfer fee of £55,000, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess. A subsequent transfer to Torino in 1961 further highlighted his versatility and adaptability in European football.

Manchester United Tenure

In 1962, Law joined Manchester United for another British record fee of £115,000, marking the beginning of an 11-year tenure that would solidify his legendary status. During this period, he scored 237 goals in 404 appearances, making him the club’s third-highest goal scorer, behind only Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton. His contributions were pivotal in securing two First Division titles in 1965 and 1967, an FA Cup victory in 1963, and the European Cup in 1968, although he missed the final due to injury. In 1964, Law’s exceptional performances were recognized with the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, making him the only Scottish player to receive this honor.

International Achievements

On the international stage, Law earned 55 caps for Scotland between 1958 and 1974, scoring 30 goals—a record he shares with Kenny Dalglish. He represented Scotland in the 1974 FIFA World Cup, further cementing his status as a national icon.

Health Challenges and Legacy

In August 2021, Law publicly revealed his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, a battle he faced with characteristic courage. His passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from the football community. Manchester United honored him during their match against Brighton on January 19, 2025, with players wearing black armbands and a pre-match ceremony featuring Sir Alex Ferguson and former teammates.

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