German legend Beckenbauer dies aged 78

Franz Beckenbauer, one of football’s all-time greats, has died at the age of 78. His family confirmed that the German icon passed away peacefully on Sunday after falling ill over the Christmas period.

Beckenbauer, who was affectionately called “Der Kaiser” (meaning The Emperor), is widely revered as the finest defender ever to play the beautiful game. The legendary centre-back made history in 1974 when he captained West Germany to World Cup glory on home soil. After hanging up his boots, he went on to manage his country to a second World Cup triumph in 1990 – making him one of only three men to win football’s top prize both as a player and manager.

After coming through the youth ranks at Bayern Munich, Beckenbauer went on to make 582 appearances for the Bavarian giants – the fourth-most in the club’s decorated history. He helped Bayern win three consecutive European Cups during a dominant spell in the 1970s. All in all, Beckenbauer won an incredible 13 major honours in a München shirt. He also had a brief spell with New York Cosmos after leaving Hamburg in 1980.

For West Germany, Beckenbauer earned 103 international caps and established himself as one of the greatest leaders in world football. Beckenbauer also held vice-presidential positions at Bayern München and the German Football Association. He headed Germany’s successful bid to host the 2006 World Cup but faced a FIFA investigation over bribery allegations regarding the bid. However, the case was closed last year after passing a five-year statute of limitation.

Beckenbauer leaves behind an immortal legacy and will go down as one of football’s most iconic figures both on and off the pitch. German football has lost true royalty but Der Kaiser’s memory will live on forever