Manchester United pay tribute to Munich air disaster victims
February 6 is a day of enormous significance to Manchester United and its fans. 60 years ago, on this day, 23 lives were lost in the cruel Munich air disaster, including members of the famous Manchester United squad nicknamed 'Busby Babes'. The Red Devils are holding a commemorative service at Old Trafford on Tuesday, as a tribute to the victims.
Munich air disaster claimed 23 lives
The unfortunate event took place at the Munich-Riem Airport and 8 players of the United-squad were amongst the 23 victims. 3-members of the coaching staff, 8 journalists, a friend of coach Sir Matt Busby, cabin-steward and co-pilot were amongst the other victims, who lost their lives in the tragedy. The British European Airways Flight 609 crashed while making a third attempt to go airborne.
Coach Sir Matt Busby survived to rebuild Manchester United
Manchester United coach, Sir Matt Busby was battling for his life for almost two months in the hospital. The legendary coach survived and returned to famously rebuild the football club post the tragedy. The players that died were the nucleus of the squad that was challenging for a third successive English league title and was destined for European domination.
Real Madrid offered their best players to United
Football is the beautiful game for a reason. Players from Real Madrid were the first ones who came to United's rescue. They dedicated their European trophy that year to the Busby Babes and even offered the club their legendary players, Ferenc Puskás and Di Stefano. However, United couldn't land both the players due to a financial crisis and FA rules against non-English speaking players.
It's not always 'a war' between arch rivals
Not just Real Madrid, Manchester United's arch-rivals Liverpool offered them five of their first team players. Liverpool coach, Bill Shankly even offered to pay their wages as Manchester United couldn't afford their wages.
United fans will never forget this tragedy
Sir Bobby Charlton and Harry Gregg were the only survivors amongst the players who lived through the crash. Around 2,000 United fans are set to go to Munich for the anniversary to pay their tributes to the victims. A minute's silence will be held at 1504 GMT at Old Trafford, marking the time of the plane crash.
