Franz Beckenbauer, a World Cup winner with Germany as both player and coach who was regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has died at the age of 78.
German news agency DPA said the family confirmed Beckenbauer's death via statement.
"It is with deep sadness that we announce that my husband and our father, Franz Beckenbauer, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his family," the family said.
Beckenbauer, born in Munich, shaped German football as a player, coach and official. His elegance and leadership qualities on the pitch with Bayern Munich and his country won him the nickname "Der Kaiser," which translates as "The Emperor.