Overview

Franz Beckenbauer, nicknamed “Der Kaiser,” is a legendary German footballer and manager renowned for his elegance on the field and exceptional leadership qualities. He is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time and is particularly famous for his role as a sweeper, a position he helped redefine. Beckenbauer had a storied playing career primarily with Bayern Munich, where he won four Bundesliga titles, four DFB-Pokals, and three consecutive European Cups (1974–1976). He also enjoyed success with the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League.

On the international stage, Beckenbauer captained West Germany to victory in the 1974 FIFA World Cup and was a key player in the team’s runner-up finish in the 1966 World Cup and third place in 1970. He also won the 1972 European Championship with West Germany. After retiring as a player, Beckenbauer became a successful manager, leading West Germany to a World Cup victory in 1990, making him one of only three men to have won the World Cup both as a player and a coach. Beckenbauer has been influential off the field as well, serving as an administrator and ambassador for the sport.