German soccer legend Franz Beckenbaur has passed away at the age of 78. His family shared 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 family said. “We ask that we be allowed to grieve in peace and be spared any questions.”

Popularly known as ‘Der Kaiser’, is a name that resonates with football enthusiasts worldwide. Emerging from the ashes of World War II, a legend was born on September 11, 1945, in Munich, Germany. Young Franz Beckenbauer, despite the challenging circumstances, found his solace and passion in the world of football. The war-torn streets of Munich served as his training ground, with a simple rag ball being his tool of choice. His raw talent and love for the game were evident even then, turning heads and attracting attention. This led to a pivotal moment in his life when, at just 14 years old, he was scouted and subsequently joined the ranks of Bayern Munich, one of Germany’s premier football clubs. This was the first step in a journey that would lead Franz Beckenbauer to become one of the greatest legends in football history.

His career with Bayern Munich, one of Germany’s premier clubs, is etched with a string of victories including an impressive four Bundesliga championships and three European Cups. He took the role of a ‘sweeper’ to a whole new level, turning it from a mere defensive position into a more elegant and critical role. Beckenbauer’s leadership qualities shone through as he wore the captain’s armband for the German team, guiding them to their triumphant win in the 1974 World Cup. The true measure of his remarkable skill and influence on the game was his dual capture of the Ballon d’Or, one of football’s most prestigious individual honors. Beckenbauer’s career is a testament to his extraordinary talent and passion for the sport, embodying the high standards and commitment he set for himself and those around him. Beckenbauer’s tenure as the coach of the German national team was laden with triumphs, culminating in the World Cup victory of 1990. This feat made him one of the rare jewels in football to have won the esteemed title as both player and coach.