Soccer icon Franz Beckenbauer, widely considered to be one of the greatest players in the history of the game, has died aged 78, according to the German football federation (DFB).
The DFB called Beckenbauer “one of the best players this sport has seen and a natural leader” and said that he passed away on Sunday in Munich. No cause of death has been revealed.
Beckenbauer led West Germany to two World Cup triumphs, first as a player in 1974, then as a head coach in 1990.
As a player, he starred with German Bundesliga side Bayern Munich from 1965 to 1977, winning five league titles and three European Cups over the course of his 582 appearances.
Known by his nickname “Der Kaiser” (“The Emperor”), Beckenbauer left an indelible mark on the game as a commanding, attacking defender who transformed the role of the sweeper.
He played in 103 international matches for Germany, serving as team captain on 50 occasions, according to the federation.
Beckenbauer also successfully headed his country’s bid to stage the 2006 World Cup.
