#6 Franz Beckenbauer

In the times when he played, Franz Beckenbauer earned the nickname 'Der Kaiser' meaning 'The King'. The German legend built a massive reputation for his leadership abilities, and above all, for his elegant style of play.
Beckenbauer is often credited for inventing the role of libero or the modern sweeper, a defender who also helps the team during attacks.
It isn't only his exploits on the pitch that need to be mentioned. Regarded as the greatest German footballer of all time, Beckenbauer also has the right to be known as the greatest manager the country has ever produced. After all, he remains one of the only three players to have won the World Cup both as a player and a manager.
Also, let's not forget that Franz Beckenbauer is one of those rare players who has lifted every major individual and collective laurel that the game has to offer: the World Cup, the European Cup and the Ballon d'Or.