City Xtra
·1 October 2024
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Yahoo sportsCity Xtra
·1 October 2024
The iconic former Manchester City footballer Francis Lee left his immediate family with a staggering wealth of funds following his death last year, it has been revealed.
Lee is widely regarded as being one of the finest footballers to ever represent Manchester City, having first joined the club in 1967 for a then-record transfer fee of £60,000, becoming the top scorer for five consecutive seasons from 1969/70 to 1973/74.
In an illustrious time with Manchester City, Francis Lee won the First Division, FA Cup, League Cup, European Cup Winners Cup, Charity Shield (twice) and the Second Division, also scoring a penalty in the European Cup Winners Cup final in a 2-1 victory over Gornik in 1970.
Having passed away in October 2023, tributes poured in from all over the football community, including from former Manchester City team-mates, and senior figures at the Etihad Stadium thanking him for his huge contribution to the organisation over the years.
And new reports have detailed the exceptional wealth that has been left to Francis Lee’s immediate family, as well as the acclaimed footballing honours that were left behind to those around him.
According to the information of The Sun, Manchester City legend Francis Lee left an eye-watering £1.6 million in his will — including a ‘treasure trove of medals’ – when he passed away in October, 2023.
Following his death at the age of 79, most of Lee’s possessions were reportedly passed on to his wife Gillian, whilst pots of £100,000 were handed to his brother Trevor, sister-in-law Pamela and daughter-in-law Sonia.
Francis Lee’s eldest son Gary, from his first marriage, was also set to receive £250,000, but passed away last year, while the rest of the footballing icon’s £1,648,000 estate is in a trust fund for his wife and three surviving kids.
Among those to have paid tribute to Francis Lee upon his passing in 2023 was Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, who told the club website, “Francis will always be remembered as one of Manchester City’s greats.
“His critical contribution to the Club’s unprecedented success in the 60s and 70s was characterised by flair, dynamism and excitement. His record as the Club’s top scorer for five consecutive seasons, his many goals for Club and Country, and his 27 England caps, are all testament to his quality as a player.
“These are records that will stand the test of time. But, what should also never be forgotten is that, as both player and Chairman, he constantly demonstrated his love, passion and commitment to the Club.”
Al Mubarak continued, It was an extension of his larger than life personality. A personality that made an impression wherever he went. His passing will sadden not only those connected to Manchester City, but the wider football family.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club, our thoughts, thanks, and deepest sympathies are with Francis’ family and friends.”