GERMANY: Football lovers worldwide mourn the recent passing of Franz Beckenbauer, an iconic German footballer and manager at 78. Fondly referred to as "Der Kaiser" (The Emperor), he leaves behind a lasting impression as one of the most exceptional players with unparalleled strategic acumen in sports history.
Beckenbauer, the football legend had a remarkable career that spanned over several decades. He accomplished multiple accolades and victories throughout his journey. As West Germany's captain in 1974 FIFA World Cup, he played an indispensable role in securing the victory for them; later as a manager of another team Beckenbauer repeated this feat by helping their triumphs again at the same event held in 1990. His extraordinary achievement puts him amongst only three individuals who were able to win both as players and managers of the World Cup bringing glory to his name forevermore through history books!
Beckenbauer's exceptional career developed on the football fields of Bayern Munich, where he played for 13 years from 1964 to 1977. At first, Beckenbauer was known as a flexible player with his ability displayed more efficiently whilst playing in left-winger position before switching into central midfield and later modernising the sweeper role which garnered him the nickname "The Emperor". During his stint at Bayern, he made an immense impact leading them through winning three consecutive European Cup titles (now commonly referred to as UEFA Champions League) throughout—1973/74, 1974/75 and also bagging recognition by taking several local leagues honors.
Beckenbauer, who was born in Giesling, Munich during September 1945, commenced his football voyage with Bayern's youth team. He played a vital part in their rise to the Bundesliga and assumed captaincy of the club in the season of 1968-69 which resulted three consecutive league triumphs under Beckenbauer’s leadership. His impact stretched beyond domestic boundaries as he steered West Germany towards glory at both European Championship (1972) and World Cup (1974).
Following his retirement from playing, Beckenbauer smoothly shifted to a thriving managerial profession. Precisely in 1984 - the year he hung up his boots for good - he assumed command of West Germany and led them to consecutive World Cup final appearances in both 1986 and 1990; ultimately claiming victory in the latter championship. These remarkable feats, coupled with winning Ballon d'Or accolades twice before (in '72 & '76), elevated Beckenbauer's profile as an iconic figure within football.
Beckenbauer left a lasting impression outside of his home country by taking on the role of manager at Marseille in France and guiding them to victory in Ligue 1. After this, he returned as coach for Bayern Munich. His exceptional tactical abilities and long-lasting legacy have cemented him as an unforgettable presence in football history. As we mourn the loss of this iconic figure, Franz Beckenbauer's impact on soccer will be honored for years to come.
ALSO WATCH: