The death has taken place of German football legend Franz Beckenbauer at the age of 78.
‘Der Kaiser’ was widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever and enjoyed great success as a manager too, guiding Germany to the 1990 World Cup having won it as a player in 1974.
A two-time Ballon d’Or winner, he is one of three players, along with Mario Zagallo (Brazil), who died on Saturday, and Didier Deschamps (France), to have won the World Cup as both a player and manager.
A dominant midfielder or attacking sweeper, he also won the European Cup three times with Bayern Munich.
“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,” a family statement read.
“We ask that you be able to grieve in silence and refrain from asking any questions.”
More to follow…
Additional reporting: PA
