Denis Law: The ‘Puny’ Aberdeen Youngster Who Became a Manchester United Great

Aberdeen: Denis Law’s story is incredible. Born in 1940, he was the youngest of seven kids. His family struggled during the war. They lived in a tiny flat and often went without shoes.

Can you believe he didn’t get his first pair of football boots until he was 16? But that didn’t stop him. He had a serious squint, which made playing tough.

In 1954, a scout spotted him while visiting Aberdeen. He got a trial with Huddersfield, but his sight issues made it uncertain. The manager called him “weak and puny.”

Still, they signed him and even paid for surgery. That was a game-changer. Law joined the first team after Huddersfield got relegated. He scored 19 goals in four seasons.

Then, Manchester City paid a record fee for him. He showed his fearless style, scoring 24 goals in 50 games. But he wanted more trophies.

He briefly played in Italy but missed home. Sir Matt Busby brought him to Manchester United in 1962. There, he teamed up with legends like Bobby Charlton and George Best.

They formed a fantastic trio. Law won the Ballon d’Or in 1964 and helped United win multiple titles. He even played in the first English team to win the European Cup in 1968.

After 11 seasons and 237 goals, he returned to City. He scored a famous back-heeled goal against them but didn’t celebrate.

Law loved Scotland too. He’s their joint-record scorer with 30 goals. He played in the 1974 World Cup and cherished the 1967 win over England.

After retiring, he worked as a broadcaster and supported charities. He was honored with a CBE in 2016. Sadly, he revealed his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2021.

Denis Law leaves behind his wife and four sons. His journey from a barefoot boy to a football legend is unforgettable.