Denis Law funeral: Pele's comment showed the Man Utd striker's greatness says Fergie

Manchester United past and present gathered at Manchester Cathedral on Tuesday afternoon to bid farewell to club legend Denis Law in an emotional funeral service.

Among the 500 mourners in attendance was Sir Alex Ferguson, who led United through one of their most successful eras.

He was joined by former United greats including Gary Neville, Bryan Robson, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes.

Current United head coach Ruben Amorim arrived with members of the first-team squad, including club captain Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire, while chief executive Omar Berrarda also represented the club.

Footballing icons beyond United also paid their respects, including Kenny Dalglish, and Law’s former Manchester City teammates Mike Summerbee and Joe Corrigan.

Denis Law, who passed away at the age of 84 in January, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia in August 2021.

He remains United’s third-highest goal scorer of all time, with 237 goals in 404 appearances, trailing only Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton.

He also remains Scotland’s joint all-time leading goal scorer with 30 goals in 55 caps.

Law was a pivotal part of United’s famous "Holy Trinity" alongside Charlton and George Best, helping the club win the European Cup in 1968. George Best’s son, Calum Best, was also in attendance at the service.

Speaking at the funeral, Law’s daughter, Diana, movingly stated that her father had "rejoined the Trinity", suggesting that Sir Matt Busby may have already begun assembling a team in heaven.

During the service, Sir Alex Ferguson shared his memories of Law’s brilliance, referencing Brazilian legend Pele’s admiration for the Scotsman.

"Trying to place Denis in the pantheon of all-time greats is a challenge. But it is made easier by Pele," Ferguson said."He was asked if there was a British player who could get into the Brazil team. He said Denis Law—which is a fantastic tribute."

Ferguson also emphasized Law’s love for Scotland and his competitive spirit, particularly in clashes against England.

"He loved Scotland and he loved beating England," Ferguson remarked."He once lined up before a game against England. He loved Nobby Stiles and Nobby worshipped him. Nobby came bounding down the tunnel and wished Denis all the best. Denis gave him a withering look and let off a volley of abuse Nobby never forgot."

Law’s coffin was taken to Old Trafford before the service, where club staff and members of the public paid their respects.

His funeral procession paused at the Holy Trinity Statue outside the stadium before continuing to Manchester Cathedral.

Flags at Old Trafford were lowered to half-mast, and United have opened a Book of Condolence for fans to leave messages in his honor.

The club has also encouraged supporters to donate to the Alzheimer’s Society and the Denis Law Foundation, charities highlighted in the Order of Service.

Law is uniquely honored at Old Trafford, being the only player depicted in two statues—one in the Stretford End concourse and another as part of the Holy Trinity statue alongside Charlton and Best.

Following Law’s passing, Manchester United paid tribute, describing him as one of their "greatest and most beloved players".

"Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84. With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club's greatest and most beloved players."

"The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit, and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. Our deepest condolences go out to Denis's family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more."

Born in Aberdeen, Law began his career with Huddersfield Town, had two spells at Manchester City, and also played in Italy for Torino as well as being Manchester United icon.

During his 11 years at Old Trafford, he won: the European Cup (1968). two English league titles and the FA Cup (1963)

Law remains the only Scottish player to have won the Ballon d’Or, claiming the prestigious award in 1964, before Charlton and Best followed in 1966 and 1968.

Tragically, he became the sixth member of United’s 1968 European Cup-winning squad to suffer from dementia, following Charlton, Nobby Stiles, Tony Dunne, David Herd, and Bill Foulkes.

As football bid farewell to one of its greatest-ever players, Denis Law’s legacy as "The King of the Stretford End" will live on forever.