𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 | GERMAN AND WORLD FOOTBALL LEGEND FRANZ BECKENBAUER HAS DIED AGED 78.

Franz Beckenbauer, a legendary German defender, died at the age of 78.
According to a statement his family made earlier today, January 8, 2024, Franz Beckenbauer, a two-time winner of the Ballon d’Or, passed away on Sunday, January 7, following a brief illness.

The statement reads: “It is with deep sadness that we announce that husband and father, Franz Beckenbauer, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his family. We ask that you be able to mourn in silence and refrain from asking any questions.”

One of the best defenders of all time, Franz Beckenbauer is one of just three people who have won the World Cup in both his managerial and coaching roles.

The center back, who was born in Munich, participated in every minute of West Germany’s epic World Cup run in 1974 and led his side to victory over the Netherlands in the championship match.

In the 1970s, Beckenbauer switched from being a midfielder to a defender. As a defender, he was a major success for Germany, appearing in 103 games and contributing 10 assists along with 14 goals.

In addition to helping Germany win the World Cup in 1974, Beckenbauer placed second in the 1966 championship, which saw Germany lose to England in the final, and took home a bronze medal in the 1970 competition.

Moreover, Beckenbauer was named Germany’s Footballer of the Year four times; the prized individual award was last awarded to him in 1976. At Euro 1972, he guided Germany to victory.

After completing the youth program at Bayern Munich in 1964, Beckenbauer spent 13 years playing senior football for the mighty Bavarian team. During that time, he participated in 582 games with 74 goals and 75 assists, winning three cups, four Bundesliga crowns, four DFB-Pokals, one Intercontinental Cup, and one European Cup.