German football pays tribute to Beckenbauer with memorial in Munich

German football on Friday is paying tribute to one of its greatest players, Franz Beckenbauer, who died on January 8 at the age of 78.

Fans and guests were welcomed to the Allianz Arena with a musical build-up. On the pitch, several wreaths had already been placed around the centre circle, including from international football clubs such as Barcelona and Liverpool.

The official part started with Bayern Munich and Germany legends, such as Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Paul Breitner and Bastian Schweinsteiger, lining up on the pitch holding flowers, while tenor Jonas Kaufmann sang the Italian version of "Time to Say Goodbye".

Bayern president Herbert Hainer made the opening speech, greeting all guests, among them, the Beckenbauer family, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

"Today the world is Bayern Munich's guest, today the world is Franz's guest. FC Bayern meant everything to Franz. He would want us to look forward. Franz firmly believed that death is just a stage. This thought gives us comfort that Franz is still with us," he said.

German President Steinmeier also shared a few words on the former Germany defender.

"So many people are saying goodbye to Franz Beckenbauer, not just in Germany but all over the world. People everywhere knew, admired and loved Franz Beckenbauer. We say goodbye to a wonderful footballer and person. On behalf of all Germans, I say thank you for everything, Franz," he said.

Bayern and Germany great Beckenbauer redefined the sweeper role, won countless titles with the club, and was their president later. He lifted the World Cup as a player and coach, and brought the 2006 World Cup to Germany.

His death led to outpouring of grief in Munich, Germany and around the world.