MUNICH — Reactions to the death of soccer great Franz Beckenbauer, who won the World Cup both as player and coach for Germany, at the age of 78:
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“The football world mourns the loss of the legendary Kaiser. His unparalleled versatility, graceful transitions between defense and midfield, impeccable ball control, and visionary style reshaped the way football was played in his era. His leadership qualities shone through as he captained both the national team and Bayern Munich during their most successful periods and continued to shine bright in his coaching career. Beckenbauer’s legacy as one of football’s all-time greats is beyond dispute. Farewell to a true legend!” – UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.
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“Franz Beckenbauer’s death is a real landmark. We look upon his life’s work with respect and great gratitude. In him we are losing a unique soccer player and a lovable person. The ‘Kaiser’ was one of the best players our sport has ever seen. With his easiness, his elegance and his vision, he set standards on the field. His meticulousness and charisma as a team boss as head of the World Cup organizing committee, as well as his energy and drive, are unforgettable.” – German soccer federation president Bernd Neuendorf.
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“A legend of German and world football, Franz Beckenbauer has achievements and triumphs which are etched in history and yet, for all his popularity, ‘Der Kaiser’ always remained modest and down to earth. … A really great person, a friend of football, a champion and a true legend, dear Franz will never be forgotten.” – FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
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“The Kaiser is gone: he represented elegance, kindness and friendship. He was a life companion for a very long time: he brought me to soccer like Pele, Cruyff or Charlton. He made German soccer, but also world soccer. For me, he was the epitome of class, both on and off the pitch. Mister Beckenbauer is gone.” – France soccer great Michel Platini, in a statement to The…
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