Manchester City apologizes for offensive fan chants against Bobby Charlton

In football, even the most extreme rivalries have limits. There are situations that are forbidden to make fun of and which even motivate a truce that includes gestures of solidarity. The death of Bobby Charlton, world football legend, must have fit perfectly into this logic. Due to the magnitude of the character and the transversality that he represented, being world champion in 1966 and who, due to his contribution to British society, was even named Sir by Queen Elizabeth II, he was considered acquired only expressions of regret because his death would be respected without restriction. Even more so in a society like English society.

However, the projection was wrong. As the duel against Brighton approached, supporters of Manchester City, the great rival of Manchester United, the club which marked Charlton’s career, mocked Charlton’s death. “Bobby is in a box “, they chanted. The expression refers to the coffin. This doesn’t even need to be explained.

The sky blue club were forced to apologise, although they downplayed the fans’ turnout. “Manchester City say extremely disappointed by offensive chants against Sir Bobby Charlton by a small number of fans,” he said in an official statement.

The entity tried to bring some common sense to the situation. “The club condemns these actions in the strongest terms and apologizes unreservedly to Sir Bobby’s family and friends, and to all United fans », he elaborates in the reference.

Josep Guardiola joined in the regrets. “When he hung up his boots, I was barely born, but I could see his strengths. My heart goes out to the Manchester United family, to yours and to all of England. “, he stated. “Players and personalities of Sir Bobby’s caliber embody the spirit of English football in a way that few can match. “, he expressed.

Likewise, it represented the most formal posture and even announced a gesture. “From City, we extend our deepest condolences to his family. Next week when we visit Old Trafford we will join in the tribute in his honour. “, said the coach.

Pep has not been shy about promoting Charlton’s legacy and how it should be honoured. “One of the reasons I admire this country so much is the way it honors and cares for its legends. These characters aren’t just part of a club; They are part of its history and tradition. Sir Bobby Charlton symbolized United and England football like very few have done “, he stressed.

City will face Swiss Young Boys this Wednesday in Group G of the Champions League, which will be playing its third day. The English lead the pack, with six units, the result of two victories in their first matches. The Swiss are third, with one point (a draw and a fall) .