A Bulgarian man, who became famous for changing his name to ‘Mr Manchester United’, has passed away at the age of 62. Originally known as Marin Zdravkov Lavidzhov, the construction worker acquired an iconic status following his decision to have his name legally changed and tattooing the crest of Manchester United on his forehead.
According to The Sun, Marin took the decision to change his name after witnessing Manchester United’s iconic win over Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final. However, it turned out easier said than done as he fought legal battles lasting 15 years to finally become Mr Manchester United.
Quoting Marin’s sister-in-law Elka Cankova, the publication further reported that Manchester United’s failing to recapture their
old glory over the recent years may have played a role in his demise.
“For him, Manchester United was his whole life. He was very emotional, and after a defeat he would be very low. From the period when United started to decline, he himself fell apart. It’s possible that it killed him,” Cankova told The Sun.
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After succeeding in changing his name legally, Marin was given a private tour of the Old Trafford in 2014 and watched Manchester United play out a 1-1 draw with Sunderland.
“Seeing where my lifelong heroes have walked and played is the greatest thing I have ever experienced. I will cherish this day forever and will tell my family and friends about it for the rest of my life,” The Sun quoted him as saying.
A Cat Named David Beckham
Marin also named his cat David Beckham – his favourite player. returned to Old Trafford in 2017 for a pre-season visit with the players.
Manchester United released an official statement, honouring their late superfan.
“We are very sorry to hear this news and send our condolences to his family and friends,” the club said in a statement.
