German legend Franz Beckenbauer, extensively thought to be certainly one of soccer’s best gamers, has died aged 78.
He gained the World Cup as captain of West Germany in 1974 and lifted the trophy once more as supervisor in 1990.
The previous defender additionally performed 582 occasions for Bayern Munich, once more profitable the German high flight as each as a participant and a supervisor.
Nicknamed Der Kaiser, as a participant he additionally gained the European Championship in 1972, in addition to the Ballon d’Or twice.
A press release from his household to German information company DPA learn: “It’s with deep unhappiness that we announce that my husband and our father, Franz Beckenbauer, handed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his household.
“We ask that you simply enable us to grieve in silence and chorus from asking any questions.”
Enjoying as a midfielder, Beckenbauer man-marked Sir Bobby Charlton within the 1966 World Cup last, which England gained 4-2, earlier than shifting to his iconic place as a defensive sweeper.
He additionally scored 4 objectives on the 1966 World Cup, aged simply 20, and gained the award for the event’s greatest younger participant.
He went on to play 103 occasions for West Germany.
As a participant at Bayern, he gained 4 league titles and was captain for the German giants’ three European Cup wins in 1974, 1975 and 1976. He additionally gained the Bundesliga with Hamburg.
“The Bundesliga household is devastated to be taught of the demise of Franz Beckenbauer. A real icon, then, now, and at all times. RIP, Der Kaiser,” the league mentioned.
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