Tributes have poured in following the death of Denis Law, a legendary figure in Manchester United’s history. Known as part of the club’s iconic “Holy Trinity” and a Ballon d’Or winner, Law passed away at the age of 84 on Friday. The Scottish striker was also the joint all-time leading goalscorer for Scotland.

Denis Law, affectionately referred to as “The King”, was hailed as “one of football’s giants”. His illustrious career included two league titles with Manchester United and being a pivotal part of the team that won the European Cup in 1968 under Sir Matt Busby, marking the first time an English club achieved such a feat. Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia in 2021, Law’s passing was announced by his family on Friday evening.

Tributes from Football Icons

Wayne Rooney, Manchester United’s all-time top scorer, honored Law’s legacy with a heartfelt post on social media, simply stating, “Legend. Thoughts with all Denis’ family and friends.” Gary Neville, another United stalwart, shared his condolences on Instagram: “Rest in Peace Denis. A great footballer and a great man. It’s a privilege and an honour to have spent time in your company. The King of the Stretford End.”

Bryan Robson, a former United captain who worked alongside Law in ambassadorial roles, described him as both a remarkable footballer and an exceptional person. In a tribute published in the Daily Mail, Robson wrote: “We’ve lost one of football’s giants, not just as a player but as a gentleman. Denis was generous with his time and always had a great sense of humour. He’d undoubtedly make my greatest-ever Manchester United XI. That iconic image of him celebrating with a one-arm salute will forever symbolize what Manchester United stands for: flair and class.”

Family Statement

Law’s family released a heartfelt statement, saying: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Denis Law. He fought a tough battle but is now at peace. We want to thank everyone who supported and cared for him over the years. Your love and kindness made all the difference.”

A Legendary Career

Despite his modest stature, Law’s fearless style and electrifying pace made him a nightmare for defenders during his 18-year professional career. His journey included stints at Huddersfield Town, Manchester City (twice), Torino, and of course, Manchester United. Notably, his transfers to Manchester City in 1960 and Torino in 1961 set British transfer fee records at the time.

Manchester United issued a statement mourning their beloved legend: “Everyone at Manchester United is grieving the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. His legacy will live on forever.” Law is immortalized at Old Trafford with two statues: one on the Stretford End concourse and another as part of the “United Trinity” alongside George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton.

Tributes from the Football World

The Scottish Football Association described Law as a “true great”, adding, “We will not see his likes again. Denis Law, 1940-2025.” Manchester City also paid tribute, stating, “The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you. Rest in peace, Denis. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

The Denis Law Legacy Trust, an organization founded in his honour, referred to him as “Scotland’s greatest ever footballer and a proud Aberdonian”. The Trust’s statement read: “Denis was an inspirational figure for so many people. As Patron of the charity, his influence and passion helped make a difference in countless lives.”

Championing Awareness for Dementia

In his later years, Law became an advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness, working closely with the Alzheimer’s Society. The organization expressed their gratitude for his contributions, stating: “Denis and his family raised significant funds and awareness for our cause. He once said, ‘You hope it won’t happen to you’ about his diagnosis. Sadly, one in three people in the UK today will develop dementia. Denis’ courage and openness have been invaluable in our fight against this condition.”

Denis Law’s enduring legacy, both on and off the pitch, will continue to inspire generations of football fans and players alike. His contributions to the sport and his advocacy for important causes leave a lasting imprint on the world.

Manchester City has confirmed that Erling Haaland has signed a new contract, extending his stay with the club until the end of the 2033-34 season. The Norwegian striker’s previous agreement was set to expire in June 2027, but he has now pledged his long-term future to the Premier League champions.

The announcement was made through the club’s X (formerly Twitter) account, which stated: “Erling’s here to stay! We’re thrilled to announce Erling Haaland has extended his contract at City to 2034.”

A Stellar Start to Life at City

Haaland joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022 and immediately made a significant impact. During his debut season, he scored an astonishing 52 goals across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in City’s historic treble-winning campaign, which included triumphs in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. He followed this remarkable debut with another prolific season, netting 38 goals as City claimed a fourth consecutive league title.

Reflecting on his new contract, Haaland expressed his delight: “I am really happy to have signed my new contract and to be able to look forward to spending even more time at this great club. Manchester City is a special place, filled with incredible people and amazing supporters. It’s the perfect environment to bring out the best in everyone.”

The 24-year-old also extended his gratitude to manager Pep Guardiola, his coaching staff, and his teammates, stating: “They’ve all played a huge role in making my time here so special. I am City, no matter what.”

A Boost Amid Challenges

Haaland’s contract extension is a significant morale boost for Manchester City, especially during a season where they have faced unexpected struggles on the pitch. The club currently sits sixth in the Premier League table, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points. Haaland’s decision to commit his future comes at a critical time when City is also awaiting the outcome of an independent disciplinary case concerning over 100 alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations—charges the club has consistently denied.

Outgoing director of football, Txiki Begiristain, hailed the contract extension, saying: “Everyone at the club is overjoyed that Erling has signed this new deal. His commitment reflects both our faith in him and his love for Manchester City. His achievements so far have been extraordinary, and his professionalism, humility, and dedication set a standard for all.”

Aiming for Records and Legacy

With this extended tenure, Haaland has a golden opportunity to chase down some of football’s most prestigious records, including Alan Shearer’s all-time Premier League scoring record of 260 goals. Haaland has already accumulated 79 Premier League goals in just 87 games and boasts a total of 111 goals in 126 matches for Manchester City in all competitions.

Begiristain added: “Under Pep’s guidance, Erling will continue to grow and achieve even more. He has the potential to create an incredible legacy here, and this long-term commitment allows him to focus entirely on his football and helping us reach new heights.”

A Busy Transfer Window

The announcement of Haaland’s renewal coincided with reports that Manchester City has reached a verbal agreement to sign Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt. The Egyptian forward, who has been in sensational form with 20 goals in 26 appearances this season, is expected to add versatility and depth to City’s attack.

The Longest Contract in European Football

Haaland’s new deal, reportedly worth £500,000 per week, is among the longest active contracts in European football. It eliminates a release clause included in his original agreement and positions Haaland to cement his status as one of the game’s all-time greats. Long-term contracts of this nature are rare in football but are more commonly seen in American sports.

As Haaland continues to shine on the pitch, his extended commitment provides Manchester City with a stable foundation for sustained success in the years to come.

Manchester United’s coach Ruben Amorim praised Amad Diallo’s stunning hat-trick performance, which turned a looming defeat into a 3-1 victory over Southampton at Old Trafford. Amad’s exploits further cemented his status as United’s standout player this season.

Dependence on Amad Ahead of Brighton Clash

Amorim acknowledged that Amad will play a key role again in the upcoming match against Brighton on Sunday. The winger’s hat-trick rescued United from what could have been a humiliating loss against a Southampton side languishing at the bottom of the Premier League table with just six points this season.

Amad’s late-game heroics began with an equalizer in the 82nd minute, followed by a go-ahead goal in the 90th, and concluded with his third—making him the first United player since Cristiano Ronaldo in April 2022 to net a hat-trick.

“I didn’t say anything,” Amorim revealed when asked if he spoke to Amad in the dressing room. “Tomorrow, I’ll tell him to rest, eat well, and prepare for Sunday. We need him again.”

Amorim emphasized the importance of staying focused. “He did a fantastic job. It’s a great moment for a young player to score a hat-trick for a club like this. But he needs to focus on the next match. This game is already in the past.”

Managing Young Talent

Amorim was cautious about placing too much pressure on the 20-year-old. “We have to be careful with young players. He’s having an excellent season, but there’s still a lot for him to improve. Congratulations to him and the team. Tonight, we celebrate, but tomorrow we recover and prepare for Brighton.”

A Game of Missed Chances

The match wasn’t without its struggles for United. An own goal by Manuel Ugarte gave Southampton a deserved lead at halftime. Despite dominating possession, United struggled to find the net for nearly five hours of play at Old Trafford, until Amad broke the drought with his late equalizer.

Half-time substitute Antony missed a golden opportunity early in the second half, steering Alejandro Garnacho’s cross straight at goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale from close range. However, Amad’s heroics salvaged the night.

Lessons to Build On

Reflecting on the game, Amorim admitted the team still has a long way to go. “You always believe,” he said. “I have to believe, but after Antony’s miss, you get that sinking feeling… yet we kept pushing.”

Amorim acknowledged the recent struggles at home, with three consecutive losses to Newcastle, Bournemouth, and Nottingham Forest.

“It’s been a difficult time for the team and the fans,” he admitted. “We turned it around tonight, but it wasn’t our best performance. If you consider all the chances, we deserved the win, but there’s still plenty of room for improvement.”

As United prepares for their next match, Amorim’s focus remains on building consistency and maximizing the potential of his squad, with Amad Diallo continuing to shine as a beacon of hope.