Football Legend Franz Beckenbauer, Nicknamed ‘Der Kaiser,’ Passes Away at 78
German football icon Franz Beckenbauer, known as ‘Der Kaiser,’ dies at 78. A legendary player and coach, he led Germany to World Cup victories and left an indelible mark on the sport. Explore his iconic career and legacy.
In a somber turn of events, German football legend Franz Beckenbauer, affectionately known as ‘Der Kaiser,’ has passed away at the age of 78, leaving an indelible mark on the world of football. The iconic figure, who played a pivotal role in Germany’s football history, breathed his last on Sunday, surrounded by his family.
Franz Beckenbauer’s family confirmed the sad news in a statement to the German media organization DPA, saying
“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. We ask that we be allowed to grieve in peace and spared any questions.”
As both a player and coach, Beckenbauer played a significant role in shaping German football. Born on September 11, 1945, in Munich, he grew up to become one of the most iconic figures in the sport. His early journey with football commenced at the age of 18 when he signed his first professional contract with Bayern Munich, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Beckenbauer’s impact on football extended beyond national boundaries. His strategic prowess and leadership skills were evident as he captained West Germany to victory in the 1974 World Cup. Furthermore, he achieved coaching success, guiding the national team to triumph in the 1990 World Cup final against Argentina.
RIP, Franz Beckenbauer ❤️
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) January 8, 2024
The German football legend has passed away aged 78.
He won the World Cup as West Germany’s captain in 1974 and as a manager in 1990. pic.twitter.com/C68BvDyjdw
Nicknamed ‘Der Kaiser‘ for his regal style of play and leadership on the field, Beckenbauer’s legacy includes a hat-trick of European Cups with Bayern Munich in the 1970s. Notably, he revolutionized the position of “libero,” showcasing a dynamic and free-roaming defensive style that left an everlasting impression on the sport.
Beckenbauer’s passing comes just days after the football community bid farewell to another legend, Mario Zagallo, who was the first person to win the World Cup as both a player and a coach.
While Beckenbauer‘s contributions to football are unparalleled, his legacy faced a moment of controversy. He played a pivotal role in securing Germany’s hosting rights for the 2006 World Cup, which proved to be a resounding success. However, allegations of bribery stained his reputation, leading to a Swiss investigation in 2017. Beckenbauer vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating, “We did not want to bribe anyone and we didn’t bribe anyone.”
In 2019, at the age of 71, Beckenbauer avoided indictment due to health reasons, and the case concluded without judgment in 2020 as the statute of limitations expired amidst pandemic-induced delays in the court system.
As the football world mourns the loss of a true icon, Franz Beckenbauer’s legacy will forever endure in the annals of the sport. His contributions to German football and his impact on the global stage solidify his status as one of the greatest football figures in history.
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