When it comes to the greatest footballers of all time, a few names always come to mind: Pele, Maradona, Messi, Ronaldo, and others. However, one name that is often overlooked or dismissed is George Best. In my opinion, Best is not only a top 5 footballer but one of the most talented, innovative, and influential players that the world has ever seen. In fact in my opinion there are few better than George Best.

Firstly, let’s talk about Best’s natural talent. He was a gifted player from a young age, known for his dribbling ability, pace, and agility. He could effortlessly glide past defenders, leaving them in his wake, and his control and balance on the ball were exceptional. However, what set Best apart from other players was his creativity and flair. He was not just a goal scorer but a magician on the field, capable of producing moments of brilliance that left fans and opponents alike in awe.

Unrealized Talent

Some argue that Best’s talent was not fully realized due to his off-field behaviour, including his struggles with alcoholism. While it is true that Best’s personal life was tumultuous, it is essential to separate that from his footballing ability. Even during periods when his personal life was in disarray, Best was still a force on the field. His skill and creativity never diminished, and he remained one of the most exciting players to watch.

Another aspect of Best’s game that deserves recognition is his influence on the sport. Best was a trailblazer, a player who changed the way the game was played. He was one of the first players to incorporate skill moves into his game, and his flair and creativity inspired a new generation of footballers. He also helped popularize the attacking wing play that has become a hallmark of modern football.

Cultural Icon

Additionally, Best’s impact extended beyond the field. He was a cultural icon, a celebrity who transcended the sport. Undoubtedly, a fashion icon, a media darling, and a symbol of the Swinging Sixties. He brought a level of glamour and excitement to football that had never been seen before. As result, he helped elevate the sport to a new level of popularity.

Of course, some argue that Best’s legacy is tarnished by his personal issues and that his talent alone is not enough to warrant a place in the top 5 footballers of all time. However, I believe that his talent and impact on the game outweigh any negative aspects of his personal life.

Personal Demons

In fact, Best’s struggles with alcoholism and personal demons make his accomplishments on the field even more impressive. Despite the challenges he faced off the field, he still managed to achieve greatness on the field. He won the Ballon d’Or in 1968. On top of that, he helped lead Manchester United to European Cup glory in 1968. His long list of personal accolades were as follows:

• Football League First Division top scorer: 1967–68^[148]
• FWA Footballer of the Year: 1967–68
• Ballon d’Or: 1968; third place 1971
• PFA Team of the Year Second Division: 1977
• Football League 100 Legends: 1998
• Honorary doctorate from Queen’s University Belfast: 2001^[149]
• Freeman of Castlereagh: 2002^[150]
• Inaugural inductee into the English Football Hall of Fame: 2002^[65]
• BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award: 2002
• UEFA Jubilee Awards – Northern Ireland’s Golden Player: 2003
• UEFA Golden Jubilee Poll: No. 19^[151]
• FIFA 100 (world’s greatest living players: 2004)^[152]
• Golden Foot: 2005, as football legend
• PFA Merit Award: 2006
• PFA England League Team of the Century (1907 to 2007):
  • Team of the Century 1907–1976^[153]
  • Overall Team of the Century^[154]
• FWA Tribute Award: 2000
• English Football Hall of Fame: 2002
• FIFA Player of the Century:
  • FIFA internet vote: No. 20
  • FIFA Magazine and Grand Jury vote: No. 5
• World Soccer The Greatest Players of the 20th century: No. 8^[155]
• Ballon d’Or Dream Team (Bronze): 2020^[156]

In conclusion, George Best is one of the top 5 footballers that have ever lived, and his legacy deserves recognition alongside other greats of the game. His natural talent, creativity, and influence on the sport make him a true icon, and his struggles off the field only serve to make his accomplishments on the field even more impressive. It’s time for football fans to give George Best the respect and recognition he deserves.