When it comes to soccer legends, few names are as recognized and celebrated as George Best. The Belfast-born footballer spent much of his career in the UK, earning numerous accolades and a place in the hearts of millions of fans. However, towards the end of his career, George Best ventured across the Atlantic to the United States, where he continued to make waves on and off the pitch. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating story of George Best’s soccer career in the US.

Best’s initial foray into the American soccer scene began in the mid-1970s, during a time when the sport was still relatively unknown and underdeveloped in the country. In 1976, he signed with the Los Angeles Aztecs, a team that was part of the North American Soccer League (NASL), the primary professional soccer league in the US at the time. It was a high-profile move that attracted a lot of attention, both from soccer fans and the media.

George Best at the LA Aztecs

At the Aztecs, Best was immediately seen as a star attraction. His mere presence drew huge crowds to his games and earned a salary that was, at the time, one of the highest in the league. Best’s time with the Aztecs was characterized by both his undeniable talent on the field and his flamboyant off-field antics. He was known to party hard, often showing up to games hungover or not at all. Despite his well-documented struggles with alcoholism.

After two seasons with the Aztecs, Best’s contract was sold to the San Jose Earthquakes, another team in the NASL. It was here that Best would experience one of the defining moments of his US career, the famous “solo goal” against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 1981. In a remarkable display of skill and ability, Best dribbled past most of the Striker’s team before dispatching the ball into the back of the net. It was an amazing goal and one that is still talked about today in the US. (Best had scored six in a game for Manchester United in the FA Cup against Northampton in 1970.)

Trouble On and Off The Pitch

Best’s time with the Earthquakes was, unfortunately, marked by a number of personal and professional setbacks. His alcoholism had become increasingly severe, leading to missed games, arguments with management, and a general decline in his performance on the field. He was eventually released by the Earthquakes in 1981 and spent some time playing for various teams in the lower divisions of the US soccer system. However, by this point, Best’s career was on a downward trajectory. Furthermore, his troubles off the pitch were becoming more and more publicized.

Despite the challenges that Best faced during his time in the US, his legacy as a soccer player in the country is still celebrated by many. He was one of the first high-profile international players to take a chance on American soccer. In the process helping to raise the sport’s profile and pave the way for future stars. He was also a trailblazer for the many European players who would follow in his footsteps, seeking to make a name for themselves in the US soccer scene.

Looking back on George Best’s United States soccer career, it’s clear that it was a rollercoaster of talent and tragedy. On one hand, Best’s incredible skill and charisma on the field captivated fans and brought attention to the sport. On the other hand, his well-documented personal struggles, including his battle with alcoholism, often overshadowed his achievements. This ultimately led to a premature end to his career. Nevertheless, Best’s impact on American soccer cannot be denied, and his influence is still felt today.

The Best Impact On the US Game

One of the ways in which George Best’s legacy lives on is through his impact on the growth of soccer in the United States. In the 1970s and 80s, American soccer was still in its infancy. With limited funding, low attendance figures, and a lack of big-name players. Best’s decision to come to the US, along with other international stars like Pele and Johan Cruyff, helped to raise the profile of the sport and generate excitement among fans. As a result, the NASL was able to expand rapidly, adding new teams and increasing its overall revenue.

Best’s impact on American soccer was not just limited to his on-field performances, however. His larger-than-life personality and celebrity status helped to generate interest in the sport outside of traditional soccer circles. He was often featured in mainstream media outlets, such as TV talk shows and fashion magazines. And was seen as a symbol of the growing cultural relevance of soccer in the US.

Of course, Best’s time in the US was not without its controversies. His well-publicized battles with alcoholism and his often erratic behaviour made headlines on numerous occasions. This, however, led to tensions with his coaches and teammates. His penchant for partying and womanizing also led to a number of personal scandals. Culminating in a high-profile divorce from his wife Angie in 1982.

Induction Into the Hall of Fame

Despite these challenges, however, Best’s talent on the field continued to shine through. His goals and assists helped to secure wins for his teams. And his individual brilliance was still a sight to behold, even as his career began to wind down. He remained a popular figure among fans and players alike. And his contributions to the sport in the US were recognized by his induction into the US Soccer Hall of Fame in 2001.

In the years since Best’s time in the US, the country’s soccer landscape has undergone a significant transformation. The NASL folded in 1984. It was not until the formation of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1993 that professional soccer returned to the US in a meaningful way. Since then, the sport has continued to grow in popularity. With MLS expanding to include 27 teams across the country and attracting top-level talent from around the world.

Laying A Foundation And Creating A Legacy

In many ways, George Best’s US soccer career was a precursor to the modern era of American soccer. His decision to come to the US at a time when soccer was still a niche sport. However, it helped to lay the foundation for the growth and expansion that we see today. His influence can be seen in the many European and South American players who now flock to the US to play in MLS. As well as in the millions of fans who now follow the sport with a passion.

In conclusion, George Best’s soccer career in the United States was a complex and multifaceted story. Beautifully characterized by both moments of brilliance and moments of tragedy. Despite the challenges that he faced, his impact on the growth of soccer in the US cannot be denied. His talent on the field helped to raise the profile of the sport. And as a result,  generate excitement among fans. While his larger-than-life personality helped to create a cultural moment that still resonates today. George Best may have been a flawed and complex figure, but his contributions to soccer in the US are an essential part of his enduring legacy.