Argentina World Cup winner Lionel Messi has honoured the memory of Franz Beckenbauer. The legendary German player passed away at the age of 78.

Beckenbauer, who was born on September 11, 1945, began his playing career as a midfielder eventually switching to defence. With his elegance and superb ball control, “The Kaiser” changed the way that football sweepers were played. Beckenbauer, who spent the majority of his career playing central defence, is recognised to be among the all-time great players. This is because of his unparalleled grace and finesse on the ball.

Even the greatest players of the game look up to him. Messi has honoured the legendary German player. He uploaded a picture of Beckenbauer along with the message QEPD, which stands for “May he rest in peace.”

Franz Beckenbauer was a great player who led West Germany to victory in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. He was the 1972 UEFA European Championship winner as well.

Beckenbauer played primarily for Bayern Munich while representing Hamburg at the club level. Among his many accomplishments were five Bundesliga titles and three UEFA Champions League (formerly known as the European Cup). In 1972 and 1976, Beckenbauer was also awarded the Ballon d’Or twice. In 2007, he received the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award.

The management career of Beckenbauer was as distinguished as his playing career. Along with West Germany, he won the FIFA World Cup in 1990. In club football, the late German manager Olympique de Marseille as well as Bayern Munich.

Franz Beckenbauer placed in the top three three times and took home the Ballon d’Or in 1972 and 1976. The football icon left his player’s stamp in Germany along with the USA, but his influence goes well beyond these nations’ boundaries.

Due to a sickness, Beckenbauer’s judgement and memory were compromised. The former captain of Germany left a lasting impact in football.