Franz Anton Beckenbauer was a German former professional footballer and football administrator. He helped Germany win almost every major international trophy throughout his glittering career as one of the world’s leading footballers. He started off as a left winger but in his early years at Bayern Munich he created the position of ‘attacking sweeper’ for himself that completely changed the way Germany and Bayern Munich played. Beckenbauer captained Bayern Munich to three consecutive titles and also helped them win three European Cup trophies from 1974 to 1976. He was the captain and inspiration when West Germany won the World Cup in front of their own fans in 1974 and 16 years later he was the manager when a unified Germany won the World Cup in Italy after edging out the Diego Maradona-led Argentina. Beckhenbauer was also awarded the European Player of the Year award twice in his career and post his managerial days he has served as one of the top officials on Bayern Munich’s advisory and oversaw one of the most successful phases in the club’s history. He played an important role in bringing the World Cup to Germany in 2006.