United

In autumn 1956, manager Matt Busby gives Bobby Charlton his first chance to play for Manchester United's first team. This marks the beginning of his rise and signals the emergence of a talented, youth-driven squad. The moment helps establish the era known as the Busby Babes.

The film highlights a team built largely from club nurture, featuring young talents such as Mark Jones, Duncan Edwards, Eddie Colman, and David Pegg. These players are developed through the club's academy system and integrated into the first team. The nickname 'Busby Babes' reflects this almost entirely home-grown core.

United win the league title and earn a place in the inaugural European Cup during the 1956–57 season. The team balances domestic success with growing ambitions in European competition. This marks the start of their two-pronged push for glory.

A rare signing occurs when Busby brings Northern Irish goalkeeper Harry Gregg to the club in late 1957. The acquisition provides experienced cover for a young squad as they prepare for European competition and domestic matches. Gregg's arrival strengthens the team as they contend on multiple fronts.

The club retains its domestic crown and prepares for another European Cup campaign in the 1957–58 season. The success at home sustains confidence to challenge across Europe. The team remains focused on development alongside competitive results.

On the return flight from a European Cup match in Belgrade, the team's aeroplane crashes after refuelling in Munich. The tragedy shakes the club and leaves several players and staff injured or dead. The crash marks a turning point in the club's history.

Harry Gregg helps save some survivors from the wreckage as chaos unfolds after the crash. Bobby Charlton sustains minor injuries, while Duncan Edwards and Matt Busby are seriously injured. Seven players are killed in the disaster, leaving the club bereft and determined to carry on.

Assistant manager Jimmy Murphy, not on the plane due to Welsh duties, flies out as soon as possible to visit the injured colleagues in hospital and travels home with Charlton. His presence provides emotional support and leadership during the crisis. The film emphasizes his pivotal role in keeping the club united.

Within a week of the crash, Charlton is allowed to leave the hospital and return to England to recover. Edwards and Busby remain in critical condition, highlighting the severity of the injuries. The club begins to reassess its future while dealing with the tragedy.

Two weeks after the crash, Duncan Edwards dies in hospital, dealing another devastating blow to Charlton and the surviving teammates. The loss deepens the sense that the Busby Babes may never return to their previous prominence. Charlton's resolve begins to be tested as he contemplates his own future.

Charlton is moved to return to football after a visit from Murphy, who offers encouragement and a belief that United can still compete. Motivated by this support, Charlton begins training again and is soon involved with the first-team plans. The narrative follows the team’s recommitment to playing for their fallen colleagues.

Murphy vows to assemble a team for the next home game and ultimately to reach the 1958 FA Cup Final, stepping in as acting manager while Busby recovers. His leadership helps steer the rebuilding side through difficult fixtures. The club aims to honor its legacy by contending for the national cup at Wembley.