The 30 best players in World Cup history
By James Dudko
3. Franz Beckenbauer, West Germany
Beckenbauer operated above the limits of positions. He was the star turn wherever he played for West Germany during three tournaments.
In 1966, Beckenbauer was a goalscoring force from the advanced areas of midfield. His four goals took the Germans to the final, where they were unfortunate to lose to an outstanding England side at a partisan Wembley Stadium.
Beckenbauer gained a measure of revenge in 1970, thanks in no small part to England manager Alf Ramsey. His decision to sub Charlton, the chief threat Beckenbauer had been tasked with man-marking, freed up the best player on the pitch to get forward.
A liberated Beckenbauer was the catalyst for West Germany’s comeback and 3-2 win. A 4-3 loss in the semifinal against Italy, where Beckenbauer played with his arm in a sling, only prepared him for greater glory four years later.
Playing at home, Beckenbauer was the linchpin of a superb West Germany team. He became the model for the modern sweeper, running whole matches from deep.
Beating the Netherlands 2-1 in the final put an appropriate flourish to Beckenbauer’s storied international career. Der Kaiser was the best player on the pitch wherever he was used.