The Lega Serie A and many of its affiliate clubs have begun paying tribute to the late Franz Beckenbauer, who died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 78 on Sunday night, a statement from his family on Monday confirmed.
Beckenbauer is synonymous with the world of German football and beyond, leaving behind a fantastic legacy at both international and club level as a player and as a coach.
‘Der Kaiser’ is one of only three men to have won the World Cup as a player and coach, becoming World Champion with West Germany in 1974 and 1990 respectively.
He is also part of an exclusive list of 10 players who have been awarded with the Ballon d’Or on more than one occasion.
Beckenbauer was also in the Bundesliga team of the season on an impressive twelve occasions, and was included in the World Cup team of the tournament three times in a row from 1966-1974.
His trophy cabinet also included three consecutive European Cups, five Bundesliga titles, four DFB-Pokals and a European Cup Winners’ Cup.
In response to the news of his passing, Serie A led the way in tributes from Italy.
“Lega Serie A would like to extend its condolences to the friends and family of Franz Beckenbauer, as well as the entire footballing world, for the passing of the German champion and sporting icon,” a post on Twitter read.
Serie A leaders Inter posted the following message to their social media accounts.
“An example of class and correctness, legend of the footballing world. The club and the entire Nerazzurri world come together in mourning the passing of Franz Beckenbauer.”
Napoli wrote: “A legend of the footballing world leaves us. Ciao, Franz.”
Lazio, meanwhile, told its supporters: “Football has lost one of its biggest legends. Rest in peace, Franz Beckenbauer.”
Fiorentina have also paid tribute, writing: “President Commisso, the management and all of Fiorentina join the pain of the footballing world for the passing of Franz Beckenbauer, a protagonist in the world of football, first as a player and then as a coach and manager.