Top 10 quotes by George Best
Updated at Mar 21, 2024
George Best, one of the most iconic figures in world football, is remembered not only for his undeniable talent on the field but also for his memorable quotes, which often reflect his humor, philosophy of life, and perception of football. Here is an article on the ten best quotes from George Best.
1. "I spent a lot of money on booze, birds, and fast cars. The rest I just squandered."
This quote is probably George Best's most famous. It perfectly sums up his extravagant lifestyle off the field. Despite his immense talent, Best was also known for his love of nightlife, which impacted his career and personal life.
2. "In 1969, I gave up women and alcohol - it was the worst 20 minutes of my life."
With this phrase, Best refers to his attempts at moderation. He uses humor here to highlight the difficulty he had in staying away from his temptations, despite the consequences on his professional career.
3. "Pelé called me the greatest footballer in the world. That made me humble."
Recognized by Pelé himself, this quote shows the mutual respect between two of the greatest footballers in history. It also reveals Best's humility, despite his immense self-confidence on the field.
4. "I never wanted to be a martyr. I just wanted to be myself."
This quote reflects Best's personality, who, despite his fame, wanted to remain true to himself, with his qualities and flaws, without trying to be a role model.
5. "Football is a simple game made complicated by people who don't know anything about it."
Best loved football for its simplicity and art. This quote criticizes those who, in his opinion, unnecessarily complicate the sport, losing sight of its essence.
6. "I always thought that if I was in front of a firing squad, I would ask for a football instead of a last cigarette."
A metaphor for Best's passion for football, showing that he would prefer to play one last time rather than have a traditional last wish.
7. "I was born with a great gift, and sometimes with that great gift comes a great responsibility."
Best acknowledged his exceptional talent, but also the burden it entailed in terms of expectations and pressure, both on and off the field.
8. "They say I slept with seven Miss Worlds. I didn't, it was only four. I didn't do the other three because I didn't have the time."
Another illustration of Best's humor and flamboyant lifestyle. He plays here with his reputation as a seducer.
9. "If I had been ugly, you would never have heard of Pelé."
This quote not only shows Best's humor but also his confidence in himself and his talent, comparing himself to the great Pelé in a humorous way.
10. "Choosing between Real Madrid and Barcelona is like choosing between two very expensive bottles of wine."
Best here evokes the difficulty of choosing between two of the greatest football clubs in the world, using an analogy with his own affection for wine.
George Best will be remembered not only as a genius footballer but also as a complex and fascinating personality, whose quotes continue to inspire and amuse.
