Tribute to Tony Book: Man City Legend Dies at 90
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Synopsis
Manchester City mourns the loss of former captain and coach Tony Book, who has passed away at 90. A true club legend, he made 315 appearances and achieved significant success as both player and manager. The club extends its condolences to his family and honors his legacy.
Key Takeaways
- Tony Book passed away peacefully at 90.
- He made 315 appearances for Manchester City.
- Led City to numerous titles as captain and manager.
- Remembered for his humility and significant contributions.
- Leaves behind a loving family and a lasting legacy.
Manchester, Jan 14 (NationPress) Manchester City has confirmed the sad news of the passing of former captain and coach Tony Book at the age of 90. A genuine club icon, Tony accumulated a total of 315 appearances for City from 1966 to 1974, netting five goals during that time. He peacefully departed this life on Monday, leaving behind his wife Sylvia, children Anthony and Tracey, along with grandson Jake and great-grandsons Ashley and Brody.
“Everyone at Manchester City wishes to extend their deepest condolences to Tony’s family and friends during this profoundly sorrowful period. To honor his memory, flags at the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy are being flown at half-mast. Further tributes from the Club will be shared in the upcoming days,” stated the club.
Having been appointed captain in 1967, Tony successfully led City to claim a First Division title, an FA Cup, a League Cup, a European Cup Winners’ Cup, and a Charity Shield during a golden era for the team. This remarkable achievement would have solidified his legacy as one of the Club’s greatest figures. However, Tony’s exceptional status in City history was further enhanced when he took on the role of manager from 1974 to 1979.
The pinnacle of his managerial career came in 1976 when he guided City to victory in the League Cup at Wembley. Tony also led City to a runners-up finish in Division One during the 1976/77 season. His substantial influence on the Club was notably highlighted in the following decade, where he served as a youth coach and inspired City to their first-ever FA Youth Cup victory in 1986.
He was later honored as an Honorary President and also took on the role of Life President of the Official Supporters Club, remaining a beloved figure among the matchday legends at Etihad home games.
“For nearly sixty years, Tony helped to mold Manchester City—not only through his contributions as a player, captain, and manager but also through his exemplary conduct. His aspirations and dreams for the club were matched only by his remarkable humility regarding his own significant accomplishments.
“He will always be cherished by our supporters as a figure who laid the groundwork for unparalleled success. A player and leader whose exceptional skills not only helped us rise back to the pinnacle of English football but also secured our first-ever European honor,” remarked City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak.
