Former goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer dies at 78
Former Manchester United and Aston Villa goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer has died at the age of 78, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across English football, reports BritPanorama.
Rimmer enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more than two decades, playing integral roles in two European Cup-winning squads with both clubs. He began his career in the youth system at Manchester United before joining the first-team squad under Sir Matt Busby.
He was on the bench during the historic 1968 European Cup final, where United defeated Benfica 4-1 after extra time. Rimmer spent nine years at Old Trafford, primarily as the understudy to first-choice goalkeeper Alex Stepney, before moving to Arsenal in 1974.
In 1977, Rimmer joined Aston Villa, where he became a crucial figure during the club’s most successful era, making 229 league appearances and contributing to their European Cup triumph in 1982. He started in the final against Bayern Munich but exited the match after just nine minutes due to injury, with Nigel Spink stepping in to help secure a 1-0 victory.
Aston Villa confirmed Rimmer’s passing in a heartfelt statement, stating, “Aston Villa is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of European Cup winner Jimmy Rimmer, who has died at the age of 78.” The club extended their condolences to his family and friends during this “incredibly difficult time.”
Former teammate Stepney expressed his sadness over the news, saying, “Such sad news to hear Jimmy Rimmer has passed away, rest in peace and lots of love to Jimmy’s family x.” Fans have taken to social media to remember Rimmer, with one supporter describing him as a “legend” and another recalling him as a “great keeper back in the day.”
Rimmer’s playing career continued with Swansea City and included brief spells in Malta and Luton Town before he retired in 1986. His singular achievement of playing for two major clubs during pivotal moments in their histories underscores his impact on the game.
Remembered fondly, Rimmer leaves behind a legacy woven into the fabric of English football, a reminder of the enduring connection between fans and their heroes.
