George Best

George Best was a Northern Irish professional footballer, born on May 22, 1946, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Best began his professional career with Manchester United in 1963, where he won multiple titles, including two Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.

Best was known for his extraordinary dribbling ability, goal-scoring prowess, and versatility. He won numerous individual awards, including the Ballon d'Or in 1968, and holds multiple records, such as the most goals in a single season for Manchester United.

Off the field, Best was also a prominent figure in popular culture, known for his high-profile lifestyle and his impact on the fashion trends of the 1960s and 70s.

Manchester United

• Early Success: Best signed with Manchester United in 1963. Under the guidance of Sir Matt Busby, he developed into one of the world's best forwards, winning two Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League title, and the Ballon d'Or in 1968.

Later Career

• Following his time at Manchester United, Best had stints with various clubs around the world, including Fulham in England, Los Angeles Aztecs and San Jose Earthquakes in the United States, and Brisbane Lions in Australia.

Northern Ireland National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Northern Ireland in 1964, at the age of 17.

Achievements:

• Although Northern Ireland did not achieve major success during Best's playing years, he is still celebrated as one of the greatest players in the country's history. He scored 9 goals in 37 appearances for the national team.

• Position: Primarily a winger, but also excelled as a forward.
• Skills: Known for his phenomenal dribbling ability, agility, and goal-scoring prowess. Best was celebrated for his creativity, vision, and flair for the dramatic.

• Family: Best was married twice and had one son, Calum.
• Lifestyle: Best was known for his high-profile lifestyle and was a prominent figure in popular culture during the 1960s and 70s. He struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which ultimately contributed to his death in 2005.

• George Best is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his impact on the culture of football. His style of play, charisma, and lifestyle off the pitch made him one of the first superstar footballers, paving the way for future generations.

Most Goals in a Single Season for Manchester United:

• 32 goals in the 1967-68 season

Ballon d'Or:

• Winner in 1968

Most Appearances and Goals for Northern Ireland:

• 37 appearances and 9 goals

Books

• Best, G. & Winner, M. (2002) Blessed: The Autobiography. London: Ebury Press.
• Hamilton, T. (2007) Immortal: The Approved Biography of George Best. London: Century.

Websites

• FIFA: Information about George Best’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fifa.com
• Manchester United: Details about Best’s career at Manchester United. Available at: https://www.manutd.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: George Best: Life and times of a football genius. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/34914337
• The Guardian: George Best’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/football/georgebest

Documentaries

• George Best: All By Himself (2016): Directed by Daniel Gordon. This documentary provides a detailed look at Best’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.