https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/fo...ed-age-78.html

German football legend Franz Beckenbauer has died at the age of 78.

The World Cup winner died on Sunday, his family have confirmed, as tributes from the world of football flooded in.

Beckenbauer's health has gradually declined ever since his son Stephan died in 2015. Since then the iconic former player and manager had battled Parkinson's disease, dementia, as well as undergoing heart operations.

He leaves behind his wife Heidi and his four other children.

'It is with deep sadness that we announce that husband and father, Franz Beckenbauer, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday, Sunday, surrounded by his family,' a statement read.