The World Cup champion of 1974, Franz Beckenbauer, has passed away

The family of the former footballer announced the passing of Franz Beckenbauer, the World Cup champion of 1974 and defender for the German national team.

Franz joined Bayern Munich in 1958. At that time, Munich-1860 was a more renowned and stronger team than Bayern, but it was the Bavarians who first extended an offer for him to play on their squad. In the initial seasons, Beckenbauer played closer to the attack and scored quite a few goals.

For instance, in the 1966 World Cup, the 21-year-old player operated in midfield. Despite his young age, his performance received high praise from experts and fans alike. In the 1965/66 season, Munich debuted in the Bundesliga with success (3rd place), and Franz Beckenbauer was named Player of the Year.

The following season, Bayern Munich secured their first international trophy—the Cup Winners' Cup. Beckenbauer, along with the national team, claimed 3rd place in the 1970 World Cup, became the champion of Euro 1972, and, as captain, led his team to triumph in the 1974 World Cup.

He was awarded the Ballon d'Or for the best European footballer in 1972 and 1976. The early 1970s are remembered for the football rivalry between two geniuses: Dutch forward Johan Cruyff and German libero Franz Beckenbauer.

In the mid-80s, Beckenbauer took charge of the German national team, winning the World Cup in 1990 and finishing as the runner-up in 1986. In 1994, he became the president of his beloved club, Bayern Munich. He also led Germany's preparations for the 2006 World Cup.