German football legend Franz Beckenbauer has died at the age of 78, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the world of football. Known as "Der Kaiser," Beckenbauer achieved unparalleled success, winning the World Cup both as a player and manager, a feat achieved by few in the history of the sport. His influence extended beyond the pitch, lifting the European Championship in 1972 and securing two Ballon d'Or awards for his outstanding performances in 1972 and 1976.
Beckenbauer's family, in a statement to German news agency DPA, confirmed his peaceful passing, 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. We ask that you be able to grieve in silence and refrain from asking any questions."
A pioneer on the field, Beckenbauer is credited with inventing the sweeper defensive role, known today as a 'Libero.' His illustrious career included four Bundesliga titles and three consecutive European Cups with Bayern Munich, where he rose through the ranks as a young player.
Beyond his playing days, Beckenbauer spent six years leading the German national team and later guided Bayern Munich to Bundesliga success in 1993-94 and a UEFA Cup triumph in 1996.
The news of Beckenbauer's passing has sent shockwaves through the football community, with his former World Cup-winning captain, Lothar Matthaus, expressing deep sorrow. Matthaus said, "The shock is deep, even though I knew that Franz wasn't feeling well. His death is a loss for football and for Germany as a whole. He was one of the greatest as a player and coach but also off the field. Franz was an outstanding personality — not only in football — and he enjoyed worldwide recognition. Everyone who knew him knows what a great and generous person Franz was. A good friend has left us. I will miss him — we will all miss him." The football world mourns the loss of a true legend who left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
