Jimmy Rimmer, a goalkeeper who played for several top English clubs and was part of Aston Villa's 1982 European Cup-winning squad, has died at the age of 78. His passing was confirmed in May 2024, following an interview where he reflected on his career.

Rimmer's career was notable for its longevity and his ability to overcome significant personal challenges, including a life-threatening heart attack in Vancouver. He had been given only two days to live after collapsing, but spent eleven days in a coma before recovering.

A Storied Career

Rimmer began his career at Manchester United, coming through the ranks alongside teammates like George Best. He was part of the youth team that won the FA Youth Cup in 1964 and the European championship within four years, though he was an unused substitute in the European Cup final against Benfica. His mentor, Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg, advised him on technique and the importance of positioning.

Gregg also encouraged Rimmer to join Swansea on loan, a move that led to his transfer to Arsenal in 1974. Rimmer recalled the difference in club culture between Manchester United and Arsenal, noting the more refined hospitality offered by the latter.

After Bob Wilson retired, Rimmer became Arsenal's first-choice goalkeeper, missing only three games in three years. His performances earned him an England cap against Italy in 1976 and a ranking among the world's top 20 goalkeepers by Gordon Banks.

European Cup Heartbreak and Triumph

Rimmer joined Aston Villa under manager Ron Saunders and became an indispensable player, missing only one game in five years. He was instrumental in Villa's league title win and their journey to the 1982 European Cup final against Bayern Munich.

However, just five days before the final, Rimmer sustained a neck injury during a league match. Despite receiving injections, he realized he could not perform at the necessary level and made the difficult decision to withdraw from the match. "I had to make it as a senior player," Rimmer stated. "I could've stayed on. We'd worked hard to get there and we wanted to win. It's a team game not Jimmy Rimmer's game. I cried in the dressing room."

Nigel Spink, who had been Rimmer's understudy, came on to make his second senior appearance and delivered a stellar performance, helping Aston Villa secure a 1-0 victory. Spink, now 65, recalled feeling for Rimmer, saying he felt "almost guilty when the dust settled" that Rimmer couldn't play in a final he deserved to be part of.

Post-Playing Career and Reflections

Rimmer, who went on to win the European Cup with a different club, later played for Swansea before embarking on a coaching career. He spent years coaching goalkeepers for the Chinese national team and Dalian Wanda, learning to respect and adapt to their culture.

He returned to South Wales after his heart attack to be closer to his son, David, whom he regretted not offering a scholarship during his time as Swansea's youth team manager. Rimmer senior remained a supporter of his former clubs from afar.

Spink continued as Aston Villa's first-choice goalkeeper for many years, making 460 appearances before moving to West Bromwich Albion. He also earned one cap for England.

A Lingering Connection to the Final

Spink's experience in the 1982 final was life-changing, bringing him recognition he had not previously experienced. He recounted a story of recovering his original 1982 European Cup final jersey from the Bayern Munich club museum, describing the reunion as emotional.

Both Rimmer and Spink would have noted Aston Villa's recent progress towards their first European final since 1982, with the team currently one win away from that achievement. The current first-choice goalkeeper, Emi Martinez, has reportedly been dealing with an injury, a situation that may have resonated with the former custodians.