Beckenbauer is an icon of German football having won 104 caps for West Germany, captaining them to glory at the 1974 World Cup before repeating the feat, as manager, in Italy 16 years later.
He also won numerous other honours, including a hat-trick of European Cups with Bayern Munich in the mid-70s, when he also established his reputation as a defender of supreme talents.
Gary Lineker has paid tribute to the legend's 'grace and charm'.
Franz Beckenbauer became synonymous with adidas in the 80s after endorsing the brand.
Although adidas still enjoys huge celebrity football endorsements in the modern game such as the likes of Paul Pogba, Toni Kroos and Lionel Messi, it was really Beckenbauer that brought the three stripes and football connection into fruition.
The family statement on Franz Beckenbauer's death read: "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.
"We ask that you be able to mourn in silence and refrain from asking any questions."
Football legend Franz Beckenbauer has sadly passed away at the age of 78, his family have confirmed
The Bayern Munich icon is the only man to have both captained and managed World Cup-winning teams.
Beckenbauer is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
He won the highest individual honour in football twice, winning the Ballon d’Or in 1972 and 1976.
Beckenbaeur featured at the 1966 World Cup for West Germany against England.
