Franz Beckenbauer was a legendary figure in German and international football for decades, first as a player, then as a coach and later as an official. Born in Munich, he joined Bayern Munich as a youth player before they became the dominant force they are today, eventually helping them to win four Bundesliga titles, the DFB Cup four times, the UEFA European Cup three times and the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup once. Later in his career, he tasted Bundesliga success again with Hamburger SV and won three North American Soccer League titles with New York Cosmos. The defender defined the role of sweeper or libero, with quick-footed movement and remarkable technique that enabled him to switch effortlessly between defence and attack. This elegant style and on-pitch leadership earned him the nickname Der Kaiser during his playing career.