Franz Beckenbauer, a towering figure in German football, passed away at 78, the German Football Association (DFB) announced on Monday.
Beckenbauer was celebrated for his unique achievements as both a player and a coach, a feat matched by only two others in history.
“Franz Beckenbauer was definitely the biggest German footballer of all time, and above all one of the greatest men I have known,” said DFB vice president Hans-Joachim Watzke, AFP reported.
As a player and later as a coach, Beckenbauer claimed victory in the World Cup, earning him a respected status in the sport.
His death on Sunday marks the end of a legendary career that had a major impact on German football.
Beckenbauer, known among football fans in Germany as “the Kaiser” or “the Emperor”, led the national team as captain in the 1970s.
In recent years, he faced health challenges and lived a private life in Salzburg, near the German border.
His legacy, however, was not without controversy. Beckenbauer’s involvement in scandals linked to Germany’s bid to host the 2006 World Cup cast a shadow over his otherwise illustrious career.
Despite this, his influence on the field and his contributions to Germany’s football triumphs remain undeniable.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Franz Beckenbauer.
Image source: X
