Jimmy Rimmer, European Cup winner with Man United and Aston Villa, dies at age 78

Jimmy Rimmer, a renowned goalkeeper who claimed the European Cup with English clubs Manchester United and Aston Villa, has passed away at the age of 78.

Rimmer, who played from 1965 to 1974 with United and then three years at Arsenal, later joined Villa in 1977 before retiring in 1983. He earned a European Cup winner's medal in 1968 after being the backup to Alex Stepney in United's 4-1 victory over Benfica in the final at Wembley Stadium.

In the 1982 European Cup final, Rimmer started for Villa against Bayern Munich, scoring the decisive goal in a 1-0 win. However, he had to leave the pitch after nine minutes due to a neck injury, which left him visibly upset in the dressing room. Rimmer managed to participate in the post-match celebrations after Villa's eventual winner, Peter Withe.

Rimmer made one appearance for England, a friendly match against Italy in 1976. He represented both Manchester United and Aston Villa in their respective league titles, playing every match in the 1976-77 season and all nine matches in Villa's victorious campaign.

United expressed deep sorrow over Rimmer's demise, with the club stating that their thoughts were with his family during this difficult period.