The world is mourning the death of Trevor Francis, Britain’s first £1 million player. The former English star passed away yesterday at 69. Trevor Francis played for some of the biggest teams in Britain, including Birmingham City, Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, Rangers, QPR, and Sheffield Wednesday.
The English man also had two stints in Italy with Atalanta and Sampdoria. He was the star of the game as he scored 243 career goals for clubs and country in a career that spanned over two decades. Francis never left football until 2003, when he last coached Crystal Palace. As the world mourns Trevor Francis, Real Madrid’s new signing Jude Bellingham has joined in paying tribute to the man who paved the way for big-money signings in the region.
Real Madrid’s $110 million acquisition pays respect to Trevor Francis
Real Madrid forked out $110 million to Borussia Dortmund to land their star man earlier this summer. The England international will now form a youthful partnership in the midfield with Eduardo Camavinga and Tchouameni. Real Madrid has invested heavily in young players over the last few years, with both Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo repaying the club’s faith in them with several Champions League trophies.
A very sad day for @BCFC and all of football. Beyond legendary, a trailblazer, a great and an icon of the game. The only thing that could exceed his quality and accolades on the pitch was his class off it. Thank you for all the guidance and the benchmarks you set. Rest in peace,… pic.twitter.com/pQaXG9rh04
— Jude Bellingham (@BellinghamJude) July 24, 2023
Bellingham’s history with Birmingham City has made him pay tribute to the fallen “trailblazer” Trevor Francis, who passed away in his Spain home yesterday at 69. Bellingham came through the ranks at Birmingham City before being sold to Borussia Dortmund, but the youngster still holds his former club in high regard.
“A very sad day for Birmingham City FC and all of football,” the English midfielder said in a tweet. “Beyond legendary, a trailblazer, a great and an icon of the game. The only thing that could exceed his quality and accolades on the pitch was his class off it. Thank you for all the guidance and benchmarks you set. Rest in peace, King Trevor,” Bellingham concluded.
Francis became the first million-dollar player in English soccer
Trevor Francis’ move to Nottingham Forest from Birmingham City FC quickly became historic as Francis became the first million-dollar player in English soccer. Nottingham Forest acquired the Englishman for £1 million, a record transfer fee in Britain at the time.
He scored 37 goals for Nottingham Forest in four seasons and also lifted the European Cup in two consecutive seasons with the club.
