Manchester United paid hommage to the victims of the 1958 Munich disaster that killed eight of the great United Busby Babes side with a silence before Saturday’s home match against Huddersfield Town.
Before the home game that fell closest to the 60th anniversary of the crash, there was a minute’s pause before kick-off and fans at the game received a commemorative pack containing a limited-edition book telling the story of the disaster.
Fans at the Stretford End waved a huge banner picturing the Busby Babes and the legend “WE’LL NEVER DIE”.
READ | Mohun Bagan crush Shillong Lajong to climb to 3rd spot in I-League
Some supporters also attended a service at the permanent memorial to the victims at the stadium.
In 1958, United were returning from a European Cup tie against Red Star Belgrade when their plane crashed attempting to take off at Munich airport, killing 23 people.
The club will also hold a commemorative service inside Old Trafford on the anniversary of the crash on Tuesday, February 6.
{{/usCountry}}The club will also hold a commemorative service inside Old Trafford on the anniversary of the crash on Tuesday, February 6.
{{/usCountry}}“This is something that is part of my life, or part of my football culture before I become Manchester United manager,” United manager Jose Mourinho said, sporting a Munich badge, on Friday at his pre-match press conference.
READ | NEROCA FC poised to pip Gokulam Kerala FC to grab top spot in I-League
“As Manchester United manager, obviously it means much more but I think it belongs to every sportsman as one of the biggest tragedies and at the same time is a crucial point in Man United history.
“The reaction, the strength, the union after that situation and I think tomorrow is an amazing day to show the respect, to show the passion for the club, respect for them, the families and I think is a day to play well.”
United’s legendary manager Matt Busby survived the crash despite being badly injured and led the club to their first ever European Cup triumph 10 years later.