FC Bayern Munich honors Franz Beckenbauer: Number 5 will never be awarded!

FC Bayern Munich honors Franz Beckenbauer: Number 5 will never be awarded!

An emotional moment was set at the annual general meeting of FC Bayern Munich on Sunday: the club's management honored the deceased members, especially the football legend Franz Beckenbauer. FC Bayern President Herbert Hainer announced that the number 5 shirt that Beckenbauer wore during his successful career will never be given away again. This happened while Beckenbauer's widow Heidi and his son Joel were present and those present responded with great applause. “The number 5 remains reserved for a unique legacy,” emphasized Hainer, underlining the unshakable influence of Beckenbauer on the club and German football history.

Franz Beckenbauer, who died on January 7, 2024 at the age of 78, is considered one of the greatest personalities in German football. Known as “The Emperor,” he led the national team to World Cup victory in 1974 and was also successful as a coach, winning the Bundesliga in 1994 and the UEFA Cup with Bayern in 1996. In the riveting speech, Hainer recalled the club's tragic losses that year, including Andreas Brehme, who scored the decisive penalty in the 1990 World Cup final. “This year, FC Bayern lost the greatest personality in its history,” said Hainer, who praised Beckenbauer’s enduring contribution to the club’s history.

A legend for eternity

The decision to no longer award the number 5 highlights Beckenbauer's undying legacy. This will be seen by the club's fans and members as a fitting tribute to a player who revolutionized football and led Bayern Munich to new heights. According to ESPN, the club will honor Beckenbauer's memory with the message "Forever Our Emperor" and honor his impressive achievements as a player, coach and president. With evolving pride and shared pain, FC Bayern Munich will always carry Beckenbauer's footsteps throughout its history.