Franz beckenbauer vs franco baresi biography

From Tier one-four, we examine eight of the best with the stipulation they must be retired.

TIER 1

FRANZ BECKENBAUER

Few footballing nicknames have been more fitting than the one bestowed upon German and Bayern Munich behemoth, Beckenbauer – “Der Kaiser” (The Emperor).

The legendary German rules all centre-back’s that came before or after him.

Bobby Moore VS Franco Baresi | Xtratime Community

His grit, guile and grace was unlike anything that had been seen previously from players viewed primarily as lumbering, uncoordinated oafs.

A midfielder in his youth, Beckenbauer made his name as a central defender and is credited with the invention of the sweeper – or Libero – role. He was one of the first defenders to possess an all-round game, able to break up play and spark his own team’s attacks.

A two-time Ballon d’Or winner (1972 & 76), he was the first defender to win the award.

He won the 1974 World Cup as a player and Baresi: "Beckenbauer was an icon, I felt uncomfortable being ...

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