Former Goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer Passes Away at 78

Former Manchester United and Aston Villa goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer has passed away at the age of 78. The veteran goalkeeper enjoyed a career spanning more than two decades. He won the European Cup with both clubs. Rimmer was part of United’s historic 1968 European Cup-winning squad. He later became a key player for Aston Villa. He started their European Cup campaign in 1982 and helped them reach the final against Bayern Munich.

Aston Villa confirmed his death in a statement and described him as a European Cup winner. The club also expressed its sympathy to his family and friends. His cause of death has not been publicly revealed. “Aston Villa is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of European Cup winner Jimmy Rimmer, who has died at the age of 78. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Jimmy’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time”, the team’s statement read. Former United teammate Alex Stepney also paid tribute. He remembered Rimmer with affection and sent his condolences to the goalkeeper’s family. “Such sad news to hear Jimmy Rimmer has passed away, rest in peace and lots of love to Jimmy’s family x”, he wrote.

Born in Southport, Lancashire, Rimmer joined Manchester United as a schoolboy in 1963. He turned professional two years later and eventually became part of Sir Matt Busby’s first-team squad. Rimmer spent much of his United career as the understudy to Alex Stepney. He was on the bench when United made history in 1968 by beating Benfica 4-1 after extra time at Wembley. The victory made United the first English club to lift the European Cup. After more than a decade connected with United, Rimmer moved to Arsenal in 1974. His time in north London also brought him international recognition. He earned his only England cap in a friendly against Italy. His career changed significantly when he joined Aston Villa in 1977. Manager Ron Saunders signed him for around £65,000. Rimmer quickly established himself as Villa’s first-choice goalkeeper. He made 287 appearances for Villa in all competitions between 1977 and 1983. He was also part of the side that won the First Division title in the 1980-81 season. Rimmer’s greatest Villa moment came during the 1981-82 European Cup campaign. He played in every match on the road to the final. However, he suffered a neck injury during the final against Bayern Munich in Rotterdam. The 1982 European Cup medal was therefore the second of Rimmer’s career. His first had come as part of Manchester United’s 1968 triumph.

After leaving Villa in 1983, Rimmer returned to Swansea City. He later had short spells with Hamrun Spartans and Luton Town in 1986 before ending his playing career. Rimmer also spent time coaching in countries including China and Canada. Rimmer leaves behind a unique legacy. He was part of two European Cup-winning teams with two different English clubs. His contribution to Aston Villa’s greatest European triumph will remain an important part of the club’s history.