Table of Contents
- George Best is a former footballer who is best known for his time with Manchester United
- Best claimed several prestigious individual honours, including the Ballon d’Or and European Footballer of the Year in 1968
- Despite making millions during his playing days, Best struggled financially in the latter stages of his life
A legend of the game, George Best biography is a must read for every football fan. He was born on May 22, 1946, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and started playing football at a young age. He was discovered by Manchester United at the age of 15 and went on to become a legend of the club, scoring crucial goals and winning titles.
Best claimed several prestigious individual honours, including the Ballon d’Or and European Footballer of the Year in 1968. The Irishman was also a star outside the beautiful game and is one of the first media celebrity footballers. His good looks often made him the centre of attention.
Despite making millions during his playing days, Best struggled financially in the latter stages of his life. He passed away in November 2005, at the age of 59 due to complications arising from liver transplant. Let’s take a look at his personal details on the next part of George Best biography.
George Best. Photo/ MUFCLatest.com.
George Best Biography
| Full name | George Best |
| Date of birth | May 22, 1946 |
| Place of birth | Belfast, Northern Ireland |
| Date of birth | November 25, 2005 |
| Height | 1.75 m |
| Nationality | Northern Irish |
| Occupation | Football |
| Source of wealth | Football |
| Marital status | Unmarried |
Career Earnings
At the peak of his career, George was earning $115,000 per year, which is about $1 million in the modern world. He was among the highest-paid footballers in the world and also had various endorsement deals. In fact, the legend’s name and image appeared in more than 80 products, including pajamas, chewing gums, cosmetics, shoes and football boots.
Best also ran his own menswear store chain alongside former England international Mike Summerbee. The two were good friends during their playing days.
Personal Life
Best’s personal life has always been a topic of discussion among football fans over the years. The legendary footballer was the son of Richard Best (born in 1919) and Anne Withers (born in 1922). His mother struggled with drug abuse and passed away due to alcoholism-related cardiovascular disease in 1978. On the other hand, his father died in 2008 aged 88.
Best had five siblings, four sisters and a brother named Ian Busby Best. He married his first wife Angela MacDonald-Janes in 1978 and the couple was blessed with a son named Calum Milan. The two separated in 1982 and then completed their divorce four years later. The former Manchester United man married Alex Pursey in 1995, but the marriage only lasted until 2004.
Career
The heart of George Best biography is his football career. The Briton’s talent was noticed by Manchester United scout Bob Bishop when he was 15. Bob wrote to then United manager Matt Busby: “I think I’ve found you a genius”, referring to Best. After passing his trials, the Irishman was signed by the Red Devils but initially played as an amateur before turning professional in 1963.
At Manchester United, Best went on to become one of the greatest players of his generation. He helped the Red Devils win two Football League First Division titles, Charity Shield and European Cup. It was during his time with United that he won the Ballon d’Or in 1968.
Best’s performance started to decline after leaving Manchester United and he ended up playing for several clubs in the United States, South Africa, Australia and Scotland. He retired in 1984 after a short spell with Northern Irish club Tobermore United.
George Best. Photo/ Manchester United.
Luxury Collection
George Best enjoyed a luxurious life during his days. He earned millions from his football career and endorsements but wasted it on “women, drink and fast cars”, as per his own words. Some of the cars he owned include a Mercedes-Benz 300SE Cabriolet and A Rolls-Royce.
According to the website Celebrity Net Worth, the legendary footballer had an estimated net worth of $250,000 at the time of his death.
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FAQs
When did George Best die?
Best passed away on November 25, 2005.
What did Pele think of George Best?
Pele once stated that Best was not only a better player than him but was also more Brazilian than British.
How many Ballon d’Ors did George Best win?
He won one Ballon d’Or in 1968.
What did George Best say before he died?
His final words were: “Do not die like me.”
