The legendary German player and one of the greatest players of all time, Franz Beckenbauer passed away peacefully at the age of 78, Sky Sports reported. Nicknamed Der Kaiser for his commanding presence on the field, Beckenbauer was a titan of the sport, leaving an indelible mark on both club and country.Beckenbauer lifted the World Cup twice with West Germany, in 1974 and 1990. He achieved 1990 triumph as manager. Beckenbauer is regarded as a Bayern Munich icon as he claimed the Ballon dOr twice.Sky Sports quoted the family statement, 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. Beckenbauers journey started as a midfielder, but his true rise came as a central defender. He redefined the role, becoming one of the first defenders by adepting at both shielding and initiating attacks with pinpoint accuracy. He lifted the European Cup three times with the Bavarian giants, adding four Bundesliga titles as a player and one as coach. In 1996, he steered Bayern to UEFA Cup glory. The legendary footballer won two European Footballer of the Year awards.
