To mark the occasion, we're recalling the career of this incredible man, whose work ethic and father-figure persona left a lasting legacy at the club.
Born in Ashton-Under-Lyne, Bert began his football career with local sides Droylsden and Stalybridge Celtic, before moving to Old Trafford at the end of the 1933/34 season. In the midst of their yo-yo years, the Reds had come close to relegation to the Third Division and were looking for fresh talent.
Whalley made his United debut in 1935, against Doncaster Rovers, and would make over 30 appearances for the first team before the outbreak of the Second World War.