But Franz had already been referred to as emperor several times before that. The first time through the BILD newspaper, which wrote on June 10, 1969: “Franz is the Emperor of Bavaria.” He later stopped their audience favorite Reinhard Libuda, the “King of Westphalia,” in a game against Schalke 04 and thus provoked the opposing fans. The press immediately took up the scene and wrote that Francis had ousted the king from the throne. It only seemed logical that he now received an even higher title: that of Kaiser. From then on, the honorary title prevailed step by step and has been firmly associated with his name over the years.

Franz wasn't always entirely happy with the title, however. After all, an emperor is often also perceived as arrogant or lazy. Especially at away games, he quickly became the target of opposing fans and met with insults and whistles. But his skill, charisma and charm outshone any hate. Franz Beckenbauer became the Kaiser of soccer and the greatest player the country ever had.

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