Bert Trautmann: The Nazi soldier who became a Manchester City hero

Few stories in the world of football are as powerful as that of Bert Trautmann, a man who went from being a Nazi soldier to becoming a Manchester City legend. His bravery, both on and off the field, immortalized him in the memory of English football. But, without a doubt, the episode that elevated him to legendary status was the 1956 FA Cup final, when he played with a broken vertebra and led his team to victory.

From World War II to English goals

Bert Trautmann was born in Bremen, Germany, in 1923. During his youth, he was a member of the Hitler Youth, like many German children of his time. At the outbreak of World War II, he voluntarily enlisted in the Luftwaffe, where he served as a paratrooper. He was captured by the British in 1945 and sent to a prisoner of war camp in Lancashire, England.

Despite being a former German soldier in a country that still painfully remembered the horrors of war, Trautmann decided to stay in England after his liberation. He began playing as a goalkeeper for local teams, and his talent soon caught the attention of Manchester City, who signed him in 1949. The decision sparked controversy and protests, but over time, his unwavering dedication to the club and his extraordinary ability between the posts made him an idol.

The 1956 FA Cup Final: An unforgettable act of courage

On May 5, 1956, Manchester City faced Birmingham City in the FA Cup final at the iconic Wembley Stadium. With the score 3-1 in City's favor, in the 75th minute, Trautmann suffered a brutal collision with striker Peter Murphy. The blow was devastating: his neck bent alarmingly, and he was visibly injured.

At that time, goalkeeper substitutions weren't allowed, so despite the pain, Trautmann decided to keep playing. In the final minutes of the match, he made several crucial saves that secured his team's victory. Only days after the match, when he underwent medical examinations, they discovered the unthinkable: he had played with five dislocated cervical vertebrae and a fracture in the second vertebra, an injury that could have been fatal.

Embed from Getty Images

An immortal legacy

Despite the severity of his injury, Trautmann managed to recover and continued playing until 1964, making a total of 545 appearances for Manchester City. During his career, he earned the respect and admiration of players and fans alike for his courage and exceptional skills.

Although there's no evidence that fans removed the goal he played in to honor his legacy, his impact on the club and English football is undeniable. Trautmann became a symbol of resilience, overcoming difficulties, and reconciliation.

After his retirement, he worked to promote football and foster friendship between Germany and England, which earned him an Order of the British Empire. In 2013, he died at the age of 89 in La Llosa, Castellón, Spain, where he had decided to settle in his later years. His story transcends sports and continues to inspire generations.

Bert Trautmann's story is proof that football is much more than a game: it's a stage where heroes are forged, where determination overcomes barriers, and where a second chance can change everything.