Bayern Munich’s unbelievable kindness to Man Utd over the 1958 Munich Air Catastrophe

These sentiments are echoed by Rummenigge (left), who has sampled the distinctive ambiance at Manchesterplatz many instances since its unveiling. 

“I keep in mind very nicely on the opening of the monument,” he says. “After we met lots of the supporters of Man United, particularly the older ones, it was a really emotional expertise for all of us. I made a speech, the lord mayor of Munich made a speech, and you can really feel how individuals are nonetheless dwelling at present with what occurred; not solely in Manchester however as nicely in Munich.

“Greater than 20 individuals died, and that was a giant catastrophe for town of Munich. The tragedy was a giant shock for the individuals of this metropolis, I used to be advised, as a result of I used to be very younger on the time of the crash [two years old], and I didn’t stay in Munich at the moment. We had quite a lot of respect for what occurred. At the moment, the connection between the 2 international locations was nonetheless strained by the Second World Warfare, however I consider in the midst of this tragic accident, Germany and England have come nearer once more. Many German individuals, many German medical doctors labored very exhausting to assist the victims and survivors, and that was additionally recognised by the British individuals.

“So, you possibly can see on the ceremonies that they’re very emotional events for everybody, seeing how individuals are nonetheless dwelling with this nightmare. Nobody will ever overlook the Munich Air Catastrophe.”

Nor will anyone at Manchester United ever overlook the contribution made by Bayern Munich, a shining gentle once we replicate on our darkest hour.