Manchester United’s 2-0 win in the Europa League Final was always going to be monumental.
Take out the footballing facts from the night, whether it be Champions League qualification or completing the trophy cabinet, last night’s match was about so much more.
In a week where 22 people were killed in a horrific attack on the Manchester Arena, the city has responded with strength and unity.
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho toned down his media obligations before the final, Manchester City conveyed that the two clubs were united as rivalries were put aside and perspective was given in the build-up to the match that it was ultimately a distraction to what had happened.
David Beckham is a Manchester United legend, a general icon and role model and he pretty much summed up what the win meant to the city while at the same time reminding that sport isn’t the be all and end all.
Taking to Instagram, the former player said,
“Tonight was more important than sport… Yes a big night for Manchester United but an even bigger night for the city and for our country …. At a time when we are grieving for the families that have lost loved ones we have a sport that has bought a little happiness at a difficult time… We pray for peace”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BUfUmb7BDJ0/?taken-by=davidbeckham
And Beckham wasn’t alone in his touching tribute to the victims of the attack as the Manchester United team donned a banner post-match.
For Manchester. pic.twitter.com/UgWP5eLQyi
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 24, 2017
