The footballing world is in mourning today after the passing of Franz Beckenbauer, the iconic German player and manager, at the age of 78. Beckenbauer, who was widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever to grace the pitch, leaves behind a legacy of unparalleled success and influence on the sport.
Renowned football player and manager, Franz Beckenbauer, fondly known as ‘Der Kaiser,’ has sadly passed away at the age of 78 at his family home, as confirmed by his family on Sunday. Born in Munich in 1945, Beckenbauer’s talent was evident from a young age.
Beckenbauer achieved great heights in his football career, winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or twice. He made history by securing the World Cup title both as the captain of West Germany in 1974 and later as a manager in 1990. This remarkable feat placed him among the exclusive group of only three individuals to achieve World Cup success as both a player and a manager.
Adding to his illustrious career, Beckenbauer also triumphed in the European championship in 1972. His family released a statement to the German news agency DPA, expressing their deep sadness, stating, “It is with deep sadness that we announce that my husband and our father, Franz Beckenbauer, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his family,” as reported.
Tributes
Bayern Munich, Germany’s most successful football club, paid tribute to Beckenbauer, acknowledging the significant impact he had on the club. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) also honored him on their official account, describing him as an “extraordinary player, successful coach, and popular pundit who shaped German football like no other.”
Beckenbauer’s impressive career included 103 appearances for the West Germany team, four league titles, and captaincy for Bayern Munich, leading the club to three European Cup victories in 1974, 1975, and 1976. He later won the Bundesliga with Hamburg in 1982.
After retiring from playing in 1983, Beckenbauer, with no prior managerial experience, took on the role of West Germany manager less than a year later. His contributions to football extended beyond Europe, as he played a pivotal role for the New York Cosmos, alongside Brazilian legend Pele, in expanding the North American Soccer League.
Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, expressed condolences, referring to Beckenbauer as “a legend of German and world football.” The football world mourns the loss of a true icon.
