
Manchester United icon Denis Law bravely battled Alzheimer’s and dementia in the years leading up to his passing on Friday at the age of 84.
Denis disclosed his dementia diagnosis in August 2021 and dedicated his efforts to raising awareness about the condition until his final days.
In March 2023, he and his wife Diana discussed their experience of managing the challenges of caring for a person with dementia as part of an Alzheimer’s Society initiative.
Their heartfelt joint statement noted: “When we said our vows, we never anticipated that we would have to test those promises due to dementia many years later.”
“We approach everything as a partnership. However, facing dementia has compelled Diana to take on more responsibilities, even though we still operate as a united front. This shift has been a significant change for both of us.
“This is a reminder that dementia can affect anyone, regardless of their status.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have enjoyed such a prominent career in football.
“Few can boast the experiences I’ve had – including winning the World Cup! The support from the public has been overwhelming.”
Denis was candid about his diagnosis from the outset, acknowledging that the future would be “difficult, demanding, painful, and ever-changing.”
At that time, he remarked: “This path will not be easy, especially for those who care deeply about you.
“I’ve become aware of my cognitive deterioration, how I sometimes struggle to recall things when I need to, and how this creates unease in unpredictable moments.
“I understand what’s occurring, which is why I want to talk about my condition while I still can, knowing there will be days when I may not comprehend it, and that thought weighs heavily on me.”
Denis Law reflects on his illustrious career in the Sky documentary The Law Man
Denis joined a cohort of former footballers affected by degenerative brain diseases, including his former United teammate Sir Bobby Charlton.
A statement from the Law family released on Friday evening read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Denis Law.
“He fought valiantly, but now he enjoys restful peace.”
“We express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has assisted in his care and support, both in the past and recently.
“We are aware of how profoundly cherished and supported he was, and that love meant everything to him. Thank you.”
Law’s football journey began at Huddersfield Town, including two periods at Manchester City and a stint with Torino in Italy.
However, it was at Old Trafford, from 1962 to 1973, where he truly made his mark, scoring 237 goals in 404 appearances.
He won two league titles with United and the FA Cup, playing a pivotal role in their 1968 European Cup Final victory over Benfica, although he missed the match due to injury.
Sir Bobby Charlton, Law, and George Best were instrumental in helping the Red Devils become the first English club to win the prestigious European Cup.
In a statement following his passing, Denis’s former club expressed: “Everyone at Manchester United mourns the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away at the age of 84.
“With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be remembered as one of the club’s greatest and most cherished players.
“The ultimate goal-scorer, his enthusiasm, character, and love for the game secured his status as a legendary figure in his era.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to Denis’s family and countless friends. His legacy will endure.”
The discussion regarding the connection between football and dementia has heightened since the passing of West Brom striker Jeff Astle in 2002.
Following his death, it was confirmed that he was the first British footballer to pass away due to the effects of repeatedly heading a soccer ball.
As a result, the inquest determined a verdict of “death by industrial disease.”
A 2019 study concluded that professional footballers are three-and-a-half times more likely to develop dementia compared to individuals of the same age in the general population.