Franz Beckenbauer has died: Franco Baresi’s touching tribute

He was also referred to as Kaiser Franz, and he decided to dedicate a touching message to his model.

Franz Beckenbauer è died at age 78, generating emotion and condolences in the world of soccer and beyond. A symbol of West Germany (and later United) and Bayern Munich for decades, the two-time Ballon d'Or helped revolutionize the defender's imagery not only among fans but also among his younger colleagues. And among them Franco Baresi, who inherited his role and nickname, stands out. Particularly touching, therefore, is the tribute of the historic Milan captain.

"One of the strongest in soccer history, an inspiration for generations. Rest in peace, Franz", Baresi wrote on his official Instagram profile. Here he decided to post an image featuring the young Beckenbauer lifting the 1974 World Cup he won as a player to the sky and then the smiling one that won another as West Germany’s technical commissioner in Italy '90.

"Sad moment. Beckenbauer has left us. An icon, a myth, an emperor for how he interpreted his role. I admired him: technique, personality, elegance. A true idol for generations. For me è he was a source of inspiration. When I was compared to him, I felt uncomfortable. For me his death è a great sorrow", Baresi added in his message.