German football pays tribute to Beckenbauer with memorial in Munich

German football on Friday paid 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 a memorial at 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 Allianz Arena would never have been built if Franz hadn't brought the World Cup to Germany," Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeneß said during his speech.

"Dear Franz, you've been dead for 12 days now. I miss you very much! Rest in peace - peace, which you sadly couldn't enjoy in recent years," Hoeneß said.

The official part of the ceremony started with Bayern 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.

"The elegance is what made Franz Beckenbauer an exceptional player. He was the libero personified. Some say he discovered the position," he said.

"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," Steinmeier added.

The audience were then shown a film about Beckenbauer's career Bayern, which prompted a standing ovation lasting minutes.

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.

"He completed his masterpiece when he brought the World Cup to Germany. He worked his backside off for years to get the votes for Germany," Hoeneß said.

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

"He became the most popular ambassador of our nation. No one can estimate how much sympathy he has brought to our country worldwide. He has rendered outstanding services to our country. He not only gave this country a 'summer fairytale', he also gave us a new, friendly view of ourselves, and we won't forget that," Sateinmeier said.

The Archbishop of Munich, Reinhard Marx, closed the ceremony with a prayer and sent greetings from Pope Francis, who is united in prayer with all mourners, before Kaufmann sang "Nessun dorma" to conclude the service.