Bayern Munich has made an announcement, setting a milestone for the club-the retiring of jersey number 5. With symbolism and respect, it was presented to the members during the annual general meeting by President Herbert Hainer. The move immortalized the legacy of Franz Beckenbauer, the greatest icon in German soccer, and one of the names that have given Bayern and Germany as they are known today.
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The unparalleled legacy of Franz Beckenbauer: Franz Beckenbauer was the spine of Bayern Munich and, without exaggeration, of German soccer. After being discovered as an adolescent, the titles won by Beckenbauer earned him only admiration. Naturally gifted as a leader, elegance on and off the field ushered Bayern into moments of glory that made a mark on European soccer history.
Throughout the 1970s, he led Bayern to four Bundesliga championships and four DFB Pokal cups. On the international scene, Beckenbauer contributed to three back-to-back European Cups in 1974, 1975, and 1976 and to the Club World Cup in 1976.
The number 5 on his back symbolized his class, composure, and way of viewing the game. Beckenbauer revolutionized the sweeper role, stepping out of defense to orchestrate play like no one else.
Words from those who miss him: Herbert Hainer's tribute
In the wake of his death, President Herbert Hainer spoke to the impact Beckenbauer had on the club: "Dear Franz, you made this club what it is today, synonymous with the greatest success, a unique style, and profound humanity as a player, coach, president, and friend. We miss you, Franz."
The respect for Beckenbauer goes beyond Bayern: He represented the pinnacle of German soccer both at club level and internationally. As captain of the German national team, he won the 1974 World Cup and the 1972 European Championship. Later, as coach, he led Germany to the 1990 World Cup, placing him among the greatest of all time.
Why retiring jersey number 5 is so significant
Modern soccer often faces debates between tradition and commercialization. Numbers on jerseys are usually just numbers, as players come and go. But in some cases, a number becomes a symbol.
At Bayern, the number 5 belongs to Beckenbauer. And only him. Since Benjamin Pavard left the club after the 2022/23 season, the number has quietly remained unused.
The retirement of jersey number 5 is a recognition that outlives time. So, just as Beckenbauer's leadership and greatness had shone on the pitch, so does the number now stand as perpetual tribute. No future player will carry its weight.
Beckenbauer beyond the player
Beckenbauer's influence didn't stop when he retired. As a coach, he led Germany to the 1990 World Cup title, joining the few who have won it as a player and coach.
Returning to Bayern, he also made his mark off the field. Serving as president from 1994 to 2009, he helped the club grow into a global powerhouse.
If Bayern Munich today stands for organization, tradition, and competitiveness, much of it is thanks to Beckenbauer's impact.