Denis Law, Manchester United Legend and Scotland’s ‘King,’ Dies at 84

MANCHESTER, England — Denis Law, the legendary Manchester United and Scotland striker known as “The King,” has died at the age of 84, his family announced on Friday. Law, the only Scottish player to win the Ballon d'Or, passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Law scored 237 goals in 404 appearances for Manchester United, placing him third on the club’s all-time scoring list behind Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton. He was the last surviving member of United’s “Holy Trinity,” following the deaths of George Best in 2005 and Charlton in 2023. His death marks the end of an era for one of football’s most storied clubs.

Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, in February 1940, Law began his career with Huddersfield Town before moving to Manchester City in 1960 for a then-British record fee of £55,000. After a brief stint with Torino in Italy, he joined Manchester United in 1962, where he became a club icon. Law’s flair, skill, and goal-scoring prowess made him a fan favorite, and his trademark celebration—arm raised, finger pointing to the sky—became iconic.

Law was instrumental in United’s success during the 1960s, helping the club win two First Division titles, the FA Cup, and the European Cup in 1968. He also earned 55 caps for Scotland, scoring 30 goals to become the country’s joint-top scorer alongside Sir Kenny Dalglish.

In a statement, Law’s family said, “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.”

Manchester United paid tribute to Law, calling him “the King of the Stretford End” and “one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players.” The club added, “His memory will live on forever more.”

After retiring in 1974, Law remained active in football as a television pundit and philanthropist. He established the Denis Law Legacy Trust, which promotes community engagement and sports participation, and was appointed a CBE in 2016 for his services to football and charity.

Law’s legacy is immortalized in statues at Old Trafford and Aberdeen, and he will forever be remembered as one of football’s true greats.