Legendary German footballer Franz Beckenbauer dies aged 78

Beckenbauer was “one of the best players this sport has seen and a natural leader,”  the German Football Federation (DFB) said, according to CNN.

He passed away on Sunday in Munich and no cause of death has been revealed, according to the report.

Beckenbauer, also known as "Der Kaiser" or "The Emperor," achieved remarkable success both as a player and a head coach in the world of football.

In 1974, as a player, and later in 1990, as a head coach, he steered West Germany to two World Cup triumphs.

Franz Beckenbauer (left) and Johan Cruyff (right), keyplayers of Germany and Netherlands, respectively. Photo Courtesy: wikipedia.org 

His illustrious playing career spanned from 1965 to 1977, during which he played a pivotal role for Bayern Munich in the German Bundesliga. With Bayern Munich, Beckenbauer secured three European Cups and clinched five league championships.

Renowned for revolutionising the role of the sweeper, Beckenbauer was a formidable and offensive-minded defender.

He represented Germany in 103 international games and captained the squad in 50 of them.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Beckenbauer played a crucial role in leading Germany's bid to host the 2006 World Cup, showcasing his commitment to the sport's global events.

Beckenbauer stands as the only defender to have won the Ballon d'Or twice, earning the prestigious title of the finest player in the men's game in both 1972 and 1976.

“The Bundesliga family is devastated to learn of the death of Franz Beckenbauer. A true icon, then, now, and always. RIP, Der Kaiser,” the Bundesliga wrote on X on Monday.

“‘Der Kaiser’ was an extraordinary player, successful coach, and popular pundit who shaped German football like no other,” European soccer governing body UEFA wrote on X, while the Premier League said that he was “as elegant as he was dominant.”

Beckenbauer is the first man to have won a World Cup in both management and play.

After leaving Bayern Munich, Beckenbauer played with the New York Cosmos for two tours in the US. During those years, he won three "Soccer Bowls" and had a brief stint with the legendary Brazilian Pelé, according to CNN.