4 years before Dirk Nowitzki was born, Germany accomplished the ultimate achievement and won the 1974 Soccer World Cup. Making a dominant showcase of their defense prowess, the team took down the Netherlands in the finals under the leadership of their captain, Franz Beckenbauer. Now, at the age of 78, the German soccer legend has sadly passed away, leaving behind the memories of his glory days. As the world mourns the loss of this great mind, a Dallas Mavericks legend, Dirk Nowitzki expressed his sorrow over the passing of Franz Beckenbauer.

“With Franz Beckenbauer, one of the greatest German sports personalities has unfortunately left us. He has shaped the last few decades like no other, on and off the field. Rest in peace!” said the 2011 NBA Champ.

Beckenbauer’s family released a statement saying that he passed away peacefully during his sleep on Sunday while surrounded by his family. The family did not provide the cause of death.

Franz Beckenbauer was born on September 11, 1945, a few weeks after World War II. At the age of 18, he signed with Bayern Munich. He became a staple in the sporting world by becoming one of the three individuals to lift a World Cup trophy as a player and as a coach, as he was the head coach of the 1990 German team in the World Cup who eventually won the tournament.

Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to how the sport is played based on player positions. His great leadership led his team to several championships. His legacy will continue to prevail in the world of soccer for a significant time.

Watch This Story: Watch: 7′3″ Basketball Player Stunned Social Media With Spectacular Dunk-Blocking Skills

Franz Beckenbauer revolutionized soccer in Germany

A member of the 2006 German national team once said, “As a player, he was way ahead of his time. As a coach, he knew how to communicate his mission to his team.“

Read More: LeBron James’ Lakers Fails to Impress NBA Veteran Despite Breaking 9-Day Drought With Victory Over Rivals

One of the biggest innovations that Beckenbauer brought to the German team was the way he utilized the libero role. A libero is a player who freely moves outside of the formation to intercept and sweep up passes and coverages that get through the defending line.

Having played as a defender and a wing player during the early days of his career, Beckenbauer built the skills to become one of the best offensive players in his role. He even played with a dislocated shoulder in the final four of the 1970 World Cup, showcasing the extent to which he pushed himself for soccer.