Franz Beckenbauer, Germany’s World Cup-winning captain and coach, has passed away at the age of 78. The news was confirmed by his family in a statement released on Monday. Beckenbauer, considered one of soccer’s greatest players, led Germany to World Cup victory in 1974 as a player and again in 1990 as a manager. He dominated the world of soccer for over 50 years, excelling as a player, coach, commentator, and administrator. Widely respected, condolences poured in from around the globe following the news of his death.
Beckenbauer’s family released a statement 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. The German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, also expressed his condolences, stating, We will miss him. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
Known as der Kaiser, Beckenbauer was a legendary figure on and off the field. His elegant playing style and calmness on the ball revolutionized the game. He is credited with virtually inventing the central defensive sweeper role, or ‘libero,’ which he excelled at during his career.
His contribution to German football was immeasurable. Bayern Munich, where Beckenbauer played and later served as a board member, expressed their grief in a statement, saying, The German record champions are grieving the loss of Franz Beckenbauer, the unique ‘Kaiser’ without whom FC Bayern would not have become the club it is today.
Beckenbauer’s international success was remarkable. He earned 103 caps for West Germany and played a pivotal role in securing the 1972 European Championship and the 1974 World Cup on home soil. Despite losing in the final to England in 1966, Beckenbauer’s resilience and determination were evident when he famously played with a dislocated shoulder and broken collarbone during the 1970 World Cup semi-final against Italy.
At the club level, his Bayern Munich team was unparalleled. They were considered the best club side in the world during the mid-1970s, winning three consecutive European Cups and three straight Bundesliga titles. Beckenbauer himself was twice named the European Footballer of the Year.
Later in his career, Beckenbauer made a bold move to the United States, joining the New York Cosmos team. There, he helped them secure three domestic titles. He also played a significant role in Hamburg’s Bundesliga victory after his return to Germany.
The loss of Franz Beckenbauer leaves a void in the soccer world. His impact as a player, coach, and ambassador for the sport will continue to be felt for generations to come. As the football community mourns this tremendous loss, Beckenbauer’s legacy and contributions to the game will forever be cherished.
