Jimmy Rimmer left Southport aged:- 15, when he was signed by Manchester United, in:- May 1963, as an amateur schoolboy. He subsequently turned professional with Manchester United in:- February 1965.
 

Rimmer was a key member of the team when Manchester United beat:- Benfica to win the:- European Cup in 1968.
 

The team has said:- "Manchester United are deeply saddened by the loss of our former goalkeeper, Jimmy Rimmer. Our thoughts are with Jimmy's loved ones at this difficult time."
 

He also played for Aston Villa when they successfully won the:- 1982 European Cup. Sadly, 9 minutes into the:- 1 to 0 final over Bayern Munich, he was replaced by:- Nigel Spink, after 9 minutes, due to a neck injury.
 

Rimmer also led Villa's charge to win the league title in the:- 1980 to 1981 season.

Throughout his stint at Villa, he made a total of:- 229 appearances for the West Midlands club.
 

Villa has issued the following statement:- "Aston Villa is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of European Cup winner Jimmy Rimmer, who has died at the age of 78. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Jimmy's family and friends at this extremely difficult time."
 

Interestingly, Rimmer was awarded player of the year after the:- 1974 to 1975 season.
 

Rimmet earned an England Cap, playing in a friendly against Italy in 1976.
 

He also played for both:- Swansea City and Arsenal. 
 

On news of his death, Arsenal has said:- "Everyone at the club is saddened to hear about the passing of former Arsenal Goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer. Jimmy missed just 2 games across 3 seasons in the mid 70's, playing 146 games for the Gunners and winning our Player of the Year award in 1975. All our thoughts are with Jimmy's family and loved ones at this difficult time. May he rest in peace ."
 

Rimmer's former teammate and fellow Goalkeeper, Alex Stepney, has also committed on social media:- "Such sad news to hear Jimmy Rimmer has passed away. Rest in peace and lots of love to Jimmy's family. X"
 

The Swan's has said:- "Swansea City mourns the passing of the club’s former player, coach and manager Jimmy Rimmer at the age of 78. Our thoughts go to Jimmy's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. You can see our full statement online at:- https://SwanseaCity.Club/4xacpEX"
 

Following his retirement from football coaching, Jimmy Rimmer lived in Gorseinon, Swansea, Wales.
 

John James Rimmer to 10 February 1948 to 14 August 2026.
 

Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.