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13 of the best quotes on George Best: ‘It was paradise watching him play’

Despite having a rather short career at the top level, Manchester United legend George Best is regarded as one of the most naturally gifted footballers of all time. 

The winger won two league titles and the European Cup at Old Trafford before leaving United at the age of 27.

We’ve collected 13 of the best quotes about one of the best players in United’s history.

Sir Bobby Charlton

“At the time when he first got in the team, no one had seen his like before: someone who was so small and tough, who would go into tackles, but also had the ability to turn people inside out and beat anyone he liked.

“George was as good as anyone you will see; he used to embarrass players time and time again. It was paradise watching George play football.”

Sir Matt Busby

“He was able to use either foot – sometimes he seemed to have six.”

Diego Maradona

“George inspired me when I was young. He was flamboyant and exciting and able to inspire his team-mates. I actually think we were very similar players – dribblers who were able to create moments of magic.”

Pele 

“The great football critics said that because of his technical skills he didn’t seem like a European athlete but rather like a Brazilian athlete who danced the samba with the ball at his feet.

“George Best until today is a footballer without comparison and his technical skills will never be forgotten.”

Johan Cruyff

“What he had was unique, you can’t coach it.”

Gordon Banks 

“George was one of the most truly talented and gifted players that I have ever had the privilege to play against in the whole of my footballing career.”

READ: George Best’s double hat-trick & the goalkeeper whose day he ruined

Harry Redknapp

“George was the best footballer I’ve ever seen. He was just a special talent. I’ve never seen anyone with the ability to beat people, to dribble, an amazing footballer.

“George Best was just the best. The greatest. He knew players went out onto the pitch to hurt him. They couldn’t get near him.”

Pat Jennings

“He was the finest player I ever played with or against. I treasure my memories of him even though on occasions he made me look rather foolish.”

Franz Beckenbauer

“George Best was one of the most talented players of all time and probably the best footballer who never made it to a major world final.”

Sir Alex Ferguson

“George was unique, the greatest talent our football ever produced – easily.”

Joe Mercer

“It seems impossible to hurt him. All manner of men have tried to intimidate him. Best merely glides along, riding tackles and brushing giants aside like leaves.”

Eusebio

“Quick and intelligent. There are no players like him now and never will be. He had fantastic skill and imagination, was quick and was a great dribbler too.”

Jimmy Greaves

“George was the ultimate showman. His attitude was ‘why simply beat a defender when you can torture him and entertain your public too?’

“They described him as a winger or an attacking midfielder but he enjoyed a free role and the freest of spirits.

“He was the first true modern footballer – the one every mediocre millionaire of the modern game should get down on their knees and thank.”


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