Bell scored 152 goals in 492 appearances for City in a 13-year career with the club after joining Bury.
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“Colin died peacefully this afternoon (Tuesday) after a brief non-COVID illness at the age of 74,” one club said.
“He leaves his wife Marie, their children Jon and Dawn and their grandchildren Luke, Mark, Isla and Jack. “
Colin Bell of Manchester City Source: Getty Images
Bell, a member of the city team that won the former First Division name in 1967/68 and the FA Cup in 1969.
He helped City win two trophies in the 1969/70 season: the English League Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
In addition to his City honours, Bell won 48 games in England and was on the team for the 1970 World Cup in Mexico, a race interrupted by a knee injury.
City said “few have left such an indelible mark” at the club as Bell, nicknamed “The King of Kippax” for one of the terraces of his former home on Maine Road.
The bell of respect remained at the club, as City enthusiasts voted to convene a grandstand at Etihad Stadium after him in 2004.
I am deeply saddened to be told of Colin’s death today. Colin had an exceptional and flexible ability: an incredible physical form, a style and an eye for purpose!A perfect teammate and a true legend of ManCity. Colin Bell’s booth will remind us of his immense contribution on and off the field.
The city’s president, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, told the club’s website: “Colin Bell will be remembered as one of Manchester City’s most important players and the sad news of his death will have an effect on all members of our club. “
“I am fortunate to be able to communicate with his former coach and teammates, and I find it transparent that Colin was a player highly appreciated by everyone who had the privilege of betting next to him or watching him play. “
“The passage of time does little to erase the character of his genius. “Meanwhile, his former City teammate Mike Summerbee paid tribute to “a lovely and humble man. “
“He was calm, unpretentious and still never knew how smart he was,” Summerbee told the club’s website.
“He’s the biggest footballer we’ve ever had.
“Kevin De Bruyne reminds me a lot of Colin in what he plays and he’s like a person.
Summerbee, a former foreigner from England, added: “I loved City enthusiasts and our followers say it’s the most productive they’ve ever seen, you don’t get a compliment greater than that, do you?”
– AFP