Berlin: The football world is reeling from the passing of Franz Beckenbauer, an iconic figure in German soccer history. Beckenbauer, hailed as one of Germany's finest football talents, led the national team to victory in the 1974 World Cup as captain and repeated the triumph in 1990 as a manager. His family announced his demise at the age of 78, leaving a profound impact on the sport.
Tributes poured in from across the globe, highlighting Beckenbauer's immense contributions to football. Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, hailed him as a modest yet knowledgeable legend, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized his role in shaping the excitement for German football across generations.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, former CEO of Bayern Munich, expressed deep shock and described Beckenbauer as not just successful but truly unique in his various roles within the sport. Herbert Hainer, Bayern's President, emphasized Beckenbauer's enduring influence on the club and the sport, transcending mere titles.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin highlighted Beckenbauer's unmatched skills and leadership, shaping the game's style during his era. The German Football Association (DFB) echoed the sentiment, mourning the loss of a football icon who made an unparalleled impact on the sport in Germany.
Other clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Inter Milan, joined in expressing their condolences, acknowledging Beckenbauer's lasting legacy and his significant contributions to football.
Gary Lineker, the former England striker, paid homage to Beckenbauer as one of the game's greatest, acknowledging his grace, charm, and achievements on the pitch.
Franz Beckenbauer's passing leaves an indelible void in the footballing world, but his legacy as a true maestro of the sport will endure as a testament to his greatness.
—Input from Agencies
