A one-of-a-kind player, this is how we remember the Red Devils legend

His path from the local fields of East Belfast to becoming a football legend is a remarkable one. Playing mainly for Manchester United, he wowed fans around the world with his amazing skills. George Best's legacy extends beyond his breathtaking skills on the pitch, etching itself into the hearts of fans worldwide. Let us delve into the life and legacy of this Manchester United legend, exploring every facet from his origins to his remarkable career and beyond.

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Born on May 22, 1946, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, George Best's football journey began on the humble streets of East Belfast. His early years in the Cregagh estate laid the foundation for what was to become a storied football career. Joining Manchester United as a teenager, Best quickly rose to fame with his extraordinary skills. He was a winger by trade, known for his incredible dribbling ability, and he spent most of his club career at Manchester United.

Sadly, George Best's life was plagued with his lifestyle, which contributed to his untimely death on November 25, 2005, at the age of 59. He passed away due to complications from the immunosuppressive treatments necessary after a liver transplant, worsened by his prolonged struggle with alcohol. His battle with alcoholism led to multiple health and legal issues, including a three-month jail term in 1984 for drunk driving and assault. Despite undergoing a liver transplant in 2002, Best's alcohol dependency continued, further impacting his health.

In 2005, his condition deteriorated significantly, leading to his hospitalization and eventual death from a lung infection and multiple organ failure. His public struggle with alcoholism and its consequences highlighted the tragic impact of this addiction. Best was known for his wit and charm, often reflected in his quotes. One of his most famous sayings, "I spent a lot of money on booze, birds, and fast cars. The rest I just squandered," encapsulates his playful and carefree attitude towards life.

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George Best's trophies

George Best's trophy cabinet includes two Football League First Division titles (1964-65, 1966-67) and a European Cup (1967-68) with Manchester United, among others. His extraordinary talent on the field also earned him the prestigious title of European Footballer of the Year in 1968, and he was a top-five finalist in the FIFA Player of the Century awards. Best's unique playing style led to his inclusion in the shortlist of six for the BBC's Sports Personality of the Century in 1999. Further cementing his legacy, Best was honoured as one of the first inductees into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2002.