In a somber announcement on Monday, German football legend Franz Beckenbauer bid farewell to the world at the age of 78. The iconic figure, known as “Der Kaiser,” played an instrumental role in shaping the course of German football, achieving unprecedented success both as a player and a coach.
Beckenbauer’s family conveyed the sad news, revealing that he peacefully passed away in his sleep on Sunday, surrounded by loved ones. The statement to German media organization dpa did not disclose the cause of death, emphasizing the family’s request for privacy during their time of mourning.
Born on September 11, 1945, Beckenbauer emerged from the working-class Munich district of Giesing, destined to become a football legend. Rising to prominence at an early age, he signed his first professional contract with Bayern Munich at 18, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.
As a player, Beckenbauer captained West Germany to victory in the 1974 World Cup and secured additional honors, including three European Cups with Bayern Munich during the 1970s. Renowned for revolutionizing the role of the “libero,” he became a free-roaming defender, blending defensive prowess with attacking flair.
Beckenbauer’s influence extended beyond the pitch, as he later transitioned into coaching. In 1990, he guided the German national team to World Cup glory once again, defeating Argentina in the final.
His legacy reached global proportions, with stints in the United States where he played for the New York Cosmos in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Despite facing legal challenges in 2019, the case concluded without a judgment in 2020 due to the expiration of the statute of limitations amid pandemic-induced court delays.
Beckenbauer’s passing follows closely on the heels of another football luminary, Mario Zagallo, who also left an indelible mark on the sport. As the football community mourns the loss of two greats, Beckenbauer’s enduring impact on German football and the beautiful game as a whole will forever be etched in history.
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