English Footballer Colin Bell, widely considered as one of the greatest players of his generation, has died aged 74 after a short illness, the Manchester City football club announced Tuesday.
The club specified that the illness of its former star was not related to COVID-19.
Bell played midfield at City and was known as The King of the Kippax, a nickname which derives from one of the stands at the club’s former Maine Road stadium. During his 13 years with the club, he made 501 appearances on the field and scored a total of 153 goals.
“Colin Bell will always be remembered as one of Manchester City’s greatest players and the very sad news today of his passing will affect everybody connected to our club", Club Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said in a statement. "The passage of time does little to erase the memories of his genius. The fact that we have a stand at the Etihad Stadium named after Colin speaks volumes about the importance of his contribution to this club."
Al Mubarak went on to recall what a modest character Bell was, although he had "obvious inner strength". He expressed his view that if Bell had not sustained an injury that led him to abandon football, his career at the club and on the English team might have been even better.
"Our Club has lost a true great. Everyone’s thoughts and best wishes are with Colin’s family," he added.
According to the club statement, the players are set to wear a retro No 8 shirt at Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final at Manchester United in Bell's honor. And the club released a tribute video to its legend on Twitter.
Remembering the King of the Kippax 👑
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 5, 2021
Immortal 💙
🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/SYW8Vw09E6
Tributes are being paid to the English football legend across the world, as former teammates, fellow football clubs and players, the English national team and fans all express their condolences on social media.
All of us @ManUtd are deeply saddened by the passing of Colin Bell, a true footballing legend.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 5, 2021
Condolences to Colin’s loved ones and everyone @ManCity.#ACityUnited https://t.co/6JTPV5CqYe
We’re deeply saddened by the news that Colin Bell, who won 48 caps for the #ThreeLions between 1968 and 1975, has passed away.
— England (@England) January 5, 2021
Our deepest condolences go to Colin’s family, friends and former clubs. pic.twitter.com/idD9CGzOeo
So very sad to hear Colin Bell’s passing. Heard all about The King! A true Manchester City legend. This man was on another level, if only I could have seen him play. Incredibly kind and humble when I met him. Carla and I send our love to his family and friends. #CollinBell pic.twitter.com/MnET8ReJsC
— Vincent Kompany (@VincentKompany) January 5, 2021
Extremely saddened to hear Colin Bell has passed away. The King Of Kippax was a true legend and someone I've grown up admiring. You'll be sorely missed Nijinsky 💔 pic.twitter.com/MQaEbBOCb6
— Phil Foden (@PhilFoden) January 5, 2021
Bell was one of the key players during City's most successful period when from 1968-70 the club claimed a clean sweep of domestic honors of the championship, FA Cup and League Cup, and won the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
His nickname "Nijinsky" was given to him because his fitness and stamina resembled that of the champion racehorse of the same name.
Bell also took part in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico.
