RIP George Best – Gone, But Not Forgotten

George Best passed away on this day five years ago. On that day, one of our club’s greatest legends was taken from this world to go and play the beautiful game in heaven. Another United great Eric Cantona once said, “After his first training session in heaven, George Best, from his favourite right wing, turned the head of God who was filling in at left-back. I would love him to save me a place in his team – George Best that is, not God.

I couldn’t have praised Best any better myself.

Unfortunately, George Best was before my time. I never had the privilege and honour of seeing this true great play. Even if you didn’t see him play, as a United fan you know what Best means to the club. I am truly thankful that services like YouTube have allowed me to watch video of Best in action. He moved so gracefully with the ball at his feet. In a world where diving was common place, watching Best battle to stay on his feet was a refreshing sight. Oh, and boy could he score goals. In fact, Best scored 32 times from midfield on the way to United’s first European title in 1967-68.

Best is still remembered for his achievements on the pitch, but his persona expanded well beyond. I think Best said it best himself: “I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered.” He was David Beckham before David Beckham. He was arguably football’s original playboy. He was always surrounded by beautiful women and plenty of alcohol; he was truly the life of any party. And the man knew how to dress too. GQ named Best one of the the 50 most stylish men of the past 50 years in 2007. He was more than just a footballer, he was the complete package. Unfortunately, his extravagant life off the pitch also played a role in his undoing.

I have always been a fan of the club’s history. Being relatively young, I feel I’ve missed so many important moments in our club’s illustrious history and it’s important to me immerse myself in that history. There is is no question that Best was a massive part of United’s history, and it’s the reason Best has become such a hero of mine despite never seeing him play live. His exemplary skill was unforgettable, and we will forever be indebted to him for what he brought to this club. He was part of the United squad that became the first English team to be crowned champions of Europe.

So on behalf of the Stretford-End team, I’d like to say rest in peace George Best. On this day five years ago we lost a legend. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.

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2 Comments on RIP George Best – Gone, But Not Forgotten

  1. Well said mate.

    I’m also too young for George but treat him like a hero.

    A friend of mine has been watching United since the early 60’s and without hesitation will always name George as the best he has ever seen, or ever will see.

    R.I.P George Best!

  2. “I have always been a fan of the club’s history. Being relatively young, I feel I’ve missed so many important moments in our club’s illustrious history and it’s important to me immerse myself in that history.”

    Couldn’t have said it any better myself, as a relatively young 21-year old United supporter. Best is undoubtedly a legend. Wished I had the privilege of watching the likes of Cantona, Law, Best, Charlton etc play, but next to that, the best thing to do is to immerse myself in the history of our great club, and be a witness to our current and future successes (especially after failing to catch the ’08 Champions League final live!!). Glory glory Man United!

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