Man United pay respects to Munich victims 60 years on

Before the home game that fell closest to the 60th anniversary of the crash, there was a minute’s pause before kick-off and fans at the game received a commemorative pack containing a limited-edition book telling the story of the disaster.

Fans at the Stretford End waved a huge banner picturing the Busby Babes and the legend “WE’LL NEVER DIE”.

Some supporters also attended a service at the permanent memorial to the victims at the stadium.

In 1958, United were returning from a European Cup tie against Red Star Belgrade when their plane crashed attempting to take off at Munich airport, killing 23 people.

The club will also hold a commemorative service inside Old Trafford on the anniversary of the crash on Tuesday, February 6.

“This is something that is part of my life, or part of my football culture before I become Manchester United manager,” United manager Jose Mourinho said, sporting a Munich badge, on Friday at his pre-match press conference.

“As Manchester United manager, obviously it means much more but I think it belongs to every sportsman as one of the biggest tragedies and at the same time is a crucial point in Man United history.

“The reaction, the strength, the union after that situation and I think tomorrow is an amazing day to show the respect, to show the passion for the club, respect for them, the families and I think is a day to play well.”

United’s legendary manager Matt Busby survived the crash despite being badly injured and led the club to their first ever European Cup triumph 10 years later.