Why was Franz Beckenbauer called Der Kaiser?
FRANZ Beckenbauer was one of the world’s most recognisable footballer’s, winning the World Cup as both a player and manager.
Beckenbauer died at the age of 78 on January 7, 2024. Here’s what we know about him.
Why was Franz Beckenbauer called Der Kaiser?
Beckenbauer was one of the most decorated footballers in history, winning major trophies as both a player and manager.
He was known as Der Kaiser, which translates to English as as The Emperor.
He first labelled Der Kaiser by a magazine that said he resembled former Bavarian king Kaiser Ludwig II.
This knickname followed him throughout his career, and was further cemented as he captained West Germany to World Cup glory in 1974, as well as winning as manager with his country in 1990.
Who did Franz Beckenbauer play for?
Beckenbauer started his professional career at Bayern Munich, the club in which he would make his name at.
Beckenbauer made 584 appearances in total for the Bavarian club, scoring 75 times.
His time in Munich was successful, winning four Bundesliga titles and three European cups in his 13 years at the club.
After leaving Bayern, Beckenbauer joined Ney York Cosmos, playing there from 1977 to 1980.
He then returned to Germany, this time joining Hamburg, helping them win the Bundesliga in 1982, which qualified them for the European cup.
Beckenbauer then returned to New York Cosmos in 1983 for his second spell.
When did Franz Beckenbauer retire?
Beckenbauer retired in 1983, finishing his career with New York Cosmos.
He became West Germany head coach in 1984, and oversaw a hugely successful period.
He led the team to the 1986 World Cup final in Mexico, losing 3-2 in the final to a Diego Maradona inspired Argentina.
He then led the team to the Semi finals of Euro 88, losing to rivals the Netherlands on home soil.
In 1990 in Italy, Beckenbauer became only the second manager after Brazil’s Mario Zagallo to win the World Cup as a player and manager.
West Germany defeated England on penalties in the semi final before avenging their final defeat four years earlier against Argentina, winning 1-0 with Andreas Brehme scoring the winner from the penalty spot.
Beckenbauer left the West Germany job in 1990, to join Marseille. In his only season at the club, he won the French league and lost in the European cup final to Red Star Belgrade.
He then had two successful spells with Bayern Munich, between 1993 and 1994, and then again in 1996.
He won the Bundesliga and the UEFA Cup in his two spells, leaving his post for the final time in June 1996, his final job in management.
He later was president of Bayern Munch and the Vice-president of the German Football Association.