Following the 78-year-old death of German football star Franz Beckenbauer, who is saying what?
“World champion both as a coach and as a player, Franz Beckenbauer was revered by many as “the Kaiser” and one of Germany’s best football players because he sparked a passion for the sport that has lasted for generations. He will be missed. My sympathies are with his friends and family.”
Olaf Scholz, the chancellor of Germany
“His fame in sports extended far beyond football. For me personally, he was a trustworthy buddy for almost forty years who was kind and dependable.”
— Thomas Bach, President of the IOC
“I was really saddened to hear about Franz Beckenbauer’s passing. Only a few days have passed since Mario Zagallo’s death. Joining them in 2018 as a World Cup champion and then as a coach was an incredible honor for me. My elation at being asked to sit at the table with these two titans of world football is matched by my grief today.
“Franz Beckenbauer was first and foremost a world-class player, a talented and authoritative defender.”
“He exuded a class and self-assurance that many sought to emulate.”
Didier Deschamps, the coach of the France squad
German national football team defender Franz Beckenbauer’s portrait, shot at Saint-Etienne on April 7, 1975. Image: AFP file
Being acquainted with and having firsthand contact with Franz Beckenbauer is among my life’s greatest blessings.
“The 1990 World Cup championship in Rome was the pinnacle of our tenure with the national team, and it would not have been possible without his exceptional coaching work.
“German football is losing its greatest personality, I am losing a good friend.”
1990 World Cup champion Rudi Voller served as the German national team’s director.
“Franz Beckenbauer was definitely the biggest German footballer of all time and, above all, one of the greatest men who I have known.”
Vice-president of the German Football Federation (DFB), Hans-Joachim Watzke
The news of Franz Beckenbauer’s passing shocks the Bundesliga family. A real legend, then, now, and forever. “Der Kaiser, rest in peace.”
— Bundesliga in Germany statement
Franz Beckenbauer was dubbed the “shining light of German football” for good reason—when he walked into a room, everything lighted up. Even the health issues and unfortunate events he had to deal with could not take away from the aura that enveloped him till the very end. I shall always remember him with fondness and am happy that I had the opportunity to meet and get to know him.”
Julian Nagelsmann, the coach of Germany
“We regretfully lost one of the best football players in FC Bayern’s history. Peace be with you, Kaiser Franz. What you have done for German football is something we will always remember.”
— 2014 German World Cup champion Thomas Muller
One of the greatest sons of European football, Franz Beckenbauer, died at the age of 78. “Der Kaiser” was a remarkable athlete, prosperous coach, and well-liked commentator who had a unique influence on German football.”
UEFA’s declaration
“We are very devastated by the loss of one of the greatest football players of all time, Franz Beckenbauer. ‘Der Kaiser’ was a World Cup champion who was as graceful and formidable as a manager. He will always remain in our memories.”
— Premier League of England
I regret to inform you about Franz Beckenbauer’s passing. Among the all-time greats in our game. The most gorgeous football player, Der Kaiser, won everything with style and elegance. RIP.”
— Gary Lineker, a TV commentator and former England striker
The news of Franz Beckenbauer’s passing—a real gaming icon—fills me with profound grief. Being able to celebrate one of my greatest achievements with him—presenting my 100th Scotland cap—was an honor. Right now, my thoughts are with him and his family. Der Kaiser, rest in peace.”
— Former player Kenny Dalglish from Scotland
“Very sad to hear that the great @beckenbauer has sadly passed away he was a fantastic player reaching world class status @FIFAWorldCup RIP #Legend”
— Peter Shilton, a former England goalkeeper