The moment George Best paid tribute to the extraordinary ability of a young Cristiano Ronaldo

In a remarkable column for the official Manchester United magazine back in 2003, the legendary George Best made a bold prediction about a young Portuguese winger by the name of Cristiano Ronaldo. Best's insightful observations and glowing praise for the teenager have aged remarkably well, and his words continue to resonate with fans today.

A Star is Born

After witnessing Ronaldo's debut for Manchester United against Bolton Wanderers, Best was immediately struck by the young player's talent. He wrote, "The first game I saw Cristiano Ronaldo play against Bolton was without doubt the most exciting debut I have ever seen." Best compared Ronaldo to himself, a comparison that was seen as audacious at the time but has since been vindicated by the Portuguese superstar's incredible career.

A Unique Talent

What impressed Best most about Ronaldo was his versatility and natural ability. He wrote, "Some players have similarities, but this kid has more than most, especially because he's really two-footed. He can play on either wing, take players on with ease, and deliver dangerous crosses. When was the last time you saw that?" Best also praised Ronaldo's physicality and determination, noting how he bounced back from a early challenge in his debut match.

A Bright Future

Best was convinced that Ronaldo had a bright future ahead of him. He wrote, "This is a kid who, if he stays injury-free, has another 15 years ahead of him. He's special, I saw it straight away."

A Perfect Fit for United

Best also believed that Ronaldo was the perfect fit for Manchester United. He praised Sir Alex Ferguson's ability to spot talent and his belief that Ronaldo would thrive at Old Trafford. Best also highlighted the club's global reach and its ability to attract the world's best players.

A Lasting Legacy

George Best's column on Cristiano Ronaldo is a fascinating read, not only because of his accurate predictions but also because of his insights into the game and the club he loved so much. Best's words serve as a reminder of the special talent that Ronaldo possesses and the impact he has had on the game.