NIGERIA — Former Aston Villa goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer, a celebrated member of the club's historic 1982 European Cup-winning squad, has died at the age of 78.

Rimmer had a distinguished career that spanned over two decades, making him one of the few English players to secure the European Cup with two different clubs.

Aston Villa announced Rimmer's passing on Friday, according to a statement shared by Sky Sports Premier League on their X account.

His senior career began at Manchester United, where he was part of the 1968 European Cup-winning team, though he did not feature in the final match.

He later transferred to Arsenal before joining Aston Villa. At Villa, Rimmer became the team's primary goalkeeper.

Rimmer played a crucial role in Aston Villa's 1980–81 First Division title victory and their subsequent European Cup campaign the following season.

In the 1982 European Cup final held in Rotterdam, Aston Villa defeated Bayern Munich 1–0. Rimmer started the game but sustained an injury within the first nine minutes, leading to Nigel Spink's substitution and a notable performance.

Despite his early departure from the final due to injury, Rimmer was recognized as part of the victorious European Cup team and received a second winners' medal.

Throughout his time at Aston Villa, Rimmer made 229 league appearances. He also represented England at the international level, earning one senior cap.