Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller and Gary Lineker pay touching tributes to Franz Beckenbauer after Germany legend dies aged 78

Beckenbauer passed away at the age of 78 on Monday, his family announced. The former Germany defender, and manager, won the World Cup both as a player and a manager, and was known as one of the best defenders to ever play the game, perhaps even being one of the first ball-playing centre-backs in history. He won the Ballon d'Or twice, and was a shining light for Bayern Munich too.

Beckenbauer redefined the defensive role and enjoyed a remarkable career that saw him transform both Bayern and Germany into two of the best teams of his era. He also managed Bayern to great success, winning the Bundesliga and the UEFA Cup as head coach.

German football will undoubtedly pay tribute to one of their greatest ever players when the Bundesliga restarts. The next matchday takes place this weekend, starting with Bayern's clash with Hoffenheim on Friday.