Though Wales is known for having produced numerous world class football players over the past few centuries (Gareth Bale, Ian Rush and Billy Meredith, to name but three), arguably no Welsh name shines as brightly as John Charles – a name synonymous with skill, strength, and a gentleman-like spirit.

Who Was He?

John Charles was known as the “Gentle Giant” of Welsh football and he left his mark on the beautiful game. He is still celebrated (especially at Juventus) as being one of the greatest players to ever grace the pitch.

Charles was born in Abertawe (Swansea) on 27 December 1931 and began his football journey in the local south Wales scene. He would join Leeds United in 1947 – quickly becoming a talisman for the club. His goal-scoring exploits and commanding presence helped the team secure promotion to the top flight in the 1955-56 season after converting from a centre back to centre forward role.

When in Rome… or Turin (though Rome Came Later)

In 1957, Charles made a groundbreaking move to Juventus in Italy. He achieved legendary status, winning three Serie A titles and becoming a beloved figure in Turin, even to this day. Aaron Ramsey would also win a Serie A title with Juventus in the 2019-20 season.

Despite his imposing stature on the pitch, Charles was known for his gentle and sportsmanlike demeanor – he has the rather unique distinction of being one of the only players to never be booked in a game (Gary Lineker is another famous name to hold this distinction). He earned the respect and admiration of teammates and opponents alike.

John Charles for Wales

Representing the Welsh national team (38 caps and 15 goals between 1950 and 1965), Charles played a crucial role in their journey to the quarter-finals of the 1958 World Cup – an achievement that remains unmatched. The game they lost in the quarter-final, against a Pele-led Brazil, was notable for Charles’ absence due to injury. Manager Jimmy Murphy was quoted as saying:

“With John Charles in the side, we might have won.” – Jimmy Murphy

John Charles’s impact was so profound that he was immortalized in a popular Leeds United chant – “He’s big, he’s Welsh, he’s on the ball, John Charles.”

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