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.