FC Bayern and Germany Mourn the Loss of Football Legend Franz Beckenbauer
Germany and FC Bayern are united in grief as they mourn the passing of Franz Beckenbauer, a true football legend. The unique Kaiser, without whom FC Bayern would never have become the club it is today, passed away on Sunday at the age of 78 in Salzburg, surrounded by his family. The loss of Beckenbauer has left a void in the hearts of the FC Bayern family, his friends, and companions, particularly his wife Heidi and his children Thomas, Michael, Joel Maximilian, and Francesca Antonie.
FC Bayern President Herbert Hainer expressed the immense grief felt by the club, stating that no words can truly capture the greatness of Beckenbauer and the void he leaves behind. As a player, Beckenbauer brought effortless elegance and magic to the pitch, leaving an indelible mark on FC Bayern and football as a whole. Hainer expressed eternal gratitude on behalf of the FC Bayern family and mourned the loss of a dear friend.
Uli Hoeneß, FC Bayern honorary president and former teammate of Beckenbauer, described him as the greatest figure the club has ever had. From his playing days to his roles as a coach and president, Beckenbauer was unmatched. Hoeneß emphasized the unique bond they shared, expressing his gratitude for the friendship they had. He bid farewell to Beckenbauer, wishing him eternal peace.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, long-time FC Bayern CEO and former teammate, expressed deep shock at the news. Rummenigge acknowledged Beckenbauer's immense contributions to German football and his lasting impact on its history. He praised Beckenbauer's success and uniqueness as a player, coach, and president. Rummenigge highlighted Beckenbauer's respect for all individuals, as he saw everyone as equals. He described Beckenbauer as the greatest figure in German football history and expressed the profound sense of loss they feel. Rummenigge concluded with heartfelt gratitude for everything Beckenbauer had done.
Jan-Christian Dreesen, FC Bayern CEO, considered the passing of Beckenbauer as one of the saddest days in the club's history. He emphasized that the history of FC Bayern and German football is incomplete without Beckenbauer. Dreesen mourned the loss of a great figure in the country, recognizing Beckenbauer's unparalleled influence on FC Bayern as a player, coach, and president. He assured that Beckenbauer would forever be remembered as the only Kaiser of German football.
Born in Munich, Beckenbauer joined FC Bayern at the age of 13 and made a significant impact on the team as a young player. Throughout his career, he achieved numerous accolades, including three consecutive European Cup victories, four Bundesliga titles, and success with the German national team, winning the World Cup in 1974 and the European Championship in 1972. Beckenbauer's contributions to football were recognized with the Ballon d'Or in 1972 and 1974, as well as multiple German Footballer of the Year awards. After retiring as a player, he continued his success as a coach, leading FC Bayern to the Bundesliga title in 1994 and the UEFA Cup in 1996. Beckenbauer also played a pivotal role in Germany's World Cup triumph in 1990 as the national team manager.