Sporting legends : George Best - Career highlights & video of this soccer genius

 

George Best was born on May 22, 1946, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for his extraordinary skill, flair, and charisma both on and off the field.

### Career Highlights

1. **Early Career and Manchester United:**

   - Best was discovered by Manchester United scout Bob Bishop in 1961 at the age of 15.

   - He made his professional debut for Manchester United on September 14, 1963, against West Bromwich Albion.

2. **Rise to Stardom:**

   - Best quickly became known for his dribbling ability, pace, and scoring prowess. He was one of the greatest dribblers that ever lived in world football 

   - In the 1964-65 season, he helped Manchester United win the First Division title.

3. **European Success:**

   - One of his most memorable performances came in the 1966 European Cup quarter-final against Benfica, where he scored twice in a 5-1 victory, earning him the nickname "El Beatle."

   - Best was instrumental in Manchester United's European Cup victory in 1968, scoring in the final against Benfica and helping the team secure a 4-1 win.

4. **Individual Accolades:**

   - In 1968, Best was awarded the Ballon d'Or, recognizing him as the best player in Europe.

   - He was the First Division top scorer in the 1967-68 season with 28 goals.

5. **Style of Play:**

   - Best was renowned for his dribbling, balance, and ability to beat defenders with ease.

   - He was a versatile forward, capable of playing on either wing or as a central striker.

6. **Challenges and Later Career:**

   - Despite his talent, Best's career was marred by personal issues, particularly his struggles with alcoholism.

   - He left Manchester United in 1974 after making 470 appearances and scoring 179 goals.

   - Best went on to play for several other clubs around the world, including brief stints in the United States, Scotland, and Australia.

7. **International Career:**

   - Best earned 37 caps and scored 9 goals for Northern Ireland between 1964 and 1977.

   - Although he never played in a major international tournament, his impact on the national team was significant.

8. **Legacy and Retirement:**

   - Best officially retired from professional football in 1984.

   - Despite his off-field issues, his influence on the game remains profound, and he is often cited as one of the most naturally gifted footballers in history.

9. **Later Life and Death:**

   - Best's later years were plagued by health problems related to his alcohol abuse.

   - He received a liver transplant in 2002 but continued to struggle with his health.

   - George Best passed away on November 25, 2005, at the age of 59.

George Best's career is a tale of dazzling brilliance and unfulfilled potential, marked by his incredible talent and his turbulent personal life. His legacy lives on through his unforgettable moments on the pitch and his enduring impact on the world of football.

Best's dazzling skills are showcased in below video