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Kaiser: The Greatest Footballer Never to Play Football

Alvin Bell

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Franz Beckenbauer, also known as Der Kaiser, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. He won the World Cup with Germany in 1974 and 1990, and the European Championship in 1972. He was also a key member of the Bayern Munich team that dominated German football in the 1970s, winning three European Cups.

But what if Beckenbauer had never played football? What if he had pursued his other passion, ice hockey?

Kaiser!: The Greatest Footballer Never to Play Football

by Rob Smyth

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	979 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	192 pages

In this fascinating and thought-provoking book, acclaimed sportswriter Uli Hesse explores this alternate reality, imagining what might have been if Beckenbauer had chosen a different path.

Hesse argues that Beckenbauer had the potential to be a great ice hockey player. He was a gifted athlete with a strong physique, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a keen sense of anticipation. He was also a natural leader, with a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed.

Hesse imagines that Beckenbauer would have made his debut for the German national ice hockey team in the early 1970s. He would have quickly established himself as one of the team's best players, and would have helped Germany win the world championship in 1976.

After his success with the national team, Beckenbauer would have gone on to play for one of the top clubs in Europe. He would have been a key member of the team that won the European Cup in 1977, and would have been named the European Player of the Year in 1978.

Beckenbauer would have retired from ice hockey in the early 1980s, and would have gone on to become a successful coach. He would have led Germany to victory in the World Cup in 1990, and would have been named the FIFA World Coach of the Year in 1991.

Hesse's book is a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of an alternate reality. It is a must-read for any fan of football or ice hockey, and for anyone who is interested in the life and career of Franz Beckenbauer.

About the Author

Uli Hesse is a German sportswriter and author. He has written several books about football, including biographies of Franz Beckenbauer and Gerd Müller. He is also a regular contributor to the German football magazine Kicker.