“RIP” – David Beckham Mourns Death of ‘Special Person’ as Toni Kroos & Soccer Legends Pay Tribute to Franz Beckenbauer

Last night, Franz Beckenbauer, the man who led Germany to their first-ever World Cup victory in 1974, passed away at the age of 78. Nicknamed ‘Der Kaiser,’ the World Champion defender is one of a select few players like Pele, Maradona, and Mario Zagallo, who defined the beautiful game in a bygone era. Der Kaiser catapulted Bayern Munich to European success and also had a remarkable stint with America’s New York Cosmos. The soccer world was recovering from Brazil legend Mario Zagallo’s tragic passing. A couple of days later, Beckenbauer’s passing struck the lovers of the sport, leaving them devastated.

David Beckham, alongside many other icons of the game fondly remembered the German icon in heartfelt tributes. Perhaps, the David Beckhams of the world must have gathered the plunge to kick a ball after seeing the likes of Der Kaiser play the beautiful game.

David Beckham and fellow soccer icons pay last respects to Franz Beckenbauer

Beckham took to Instagram with a picture that recalls his fond memory with Franz Beckenbauer. In the picture, DB could be seen pleasantly interacting with Beckenbauer at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. He also posted pictures of Beckenbauer going against England’s late Sir Bobby Charlton, and also him lifting the World Cup for Germany. “So sad to lose a special person, special player & a true gentleman, we send love and thoughts to Franz’s family and friends,” David Beckham, captioned his post.

Meanwhile, soccer icons including retired legends, active players, coaches, and club owners rushed with heartfelt messages honoring the legendary Franz Beckenbauer.

READ MORE: “RIP” – Lionel Messi Mourns Tragic Death of Former World Champion & Bayern Munich Legend Franz Beckenbauer

Indeed a priceless moment for any German teenager. Toni Kroos recalls sharing a moment with Beckenbauer after winning the Best Player’s award at the 2007 U-17 World Cup.

Gary Lineker was devastated over Der Kaiser’s passing. But reminisces about his greatness, grace, and charm.

Jamie Carragher emotionally reminisces about the first foreign player he has ever heard of.

From David Beckham to Toni Kroos and then David Alaba…the 1974 World Champion never shied away from embracing and inspiring his successors.

Zico, one of Brazil’s national heroes remembers Germany’s first national hero. By the time Zico started his stint, Beckenbauer had hung his boots. But the two crossed paths later.

Didier Deschamps honors the man who won the World Cup as a player and a coach. Deschamps later mirrored the feat, only scaled by Mario Zagallo and Der Kaiser. The two legends left Deschamps, with their legacies behind.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag pays tribute to a legend who was rightly nicknamed ‘The Emperor.’

Paris Saint Germain and its president Nasser Al Khelaifi come together to mourn Franz Beckenbauer’s passing.

Franz Beckenbauer has had a Midas touch in both Germany NT and Bayern Munich. For Germany, he won the World Cup as a player and a manager. He mirrored a similar feat in Munich, with tremendous European success during his playing and managing stints. The soccer world will take time to comprehend what such a legend has left. Rest in peace, Franz Der Kaiser Beckenbauer!

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