German football legend Franz Beckenbauer has died at the age of 78, his family has confirmed. Beckenbauer was suffering for the last few months from a significant deterioration that affected both his judgment and his memory.
A statement from his family to German news agency DPA said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce that my husband and our father, Franz Beckenbauer, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his family.
“We ask that you be able to grieve in silence and refrain from asking any questions.”
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After graduating from the Bayern Munich’s youth system in 1964, Beckenbauer spent 13 years at the club, winning numerous trophies and two Ballon d’Ors.
Beckenbauer also won three European Cups with Bayern Munich in the mid 1970s, during which time he established himself as one of the best defensive players in the world.
He was a legendary figure for the German national football team too, having played 104 times for West Germany and leading them to victory at the World Cup in 1974. He went on to do the same as a manager 16 years later in Italy.
Tributes poured in from all quarters after the news of his demise spread, with many hailing the legend for his contribution to football.
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