RIP Lionel Messi Mourns Tragic Death of Former World Champion & BayernMunich Legend Franz

In an unfortunate turn of events, soccer legend Franz Beckenbauer has passed away at the age of 78. This heartbreaking news has left millions of fans in a state of mourning. Even Argentine legend Lionel Messi has joined in this collective sorrow, expressing his condolences with a simple four-letter message.

According to Beckenbauer’s family, the Bayern Munich legend passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday surrounded by family members. However, no specific details regarding the cause of death have been disclosed at this time.

Lionel Messi pays touching tribute with a 4-letter message

In light of the unfortunate news of Beckenbauer’s demise, Lionel Messi expressed his condolences on his Instagram story by sharing a photograph of the revered German soccer legend. Alongside the image, the 8x Ballon d’Or winner wrote a simple but profound message, “QEPD.” 

QEPD is an abbreviation for ‘que en paz descanse’ in Spanish which translates to ‘Rest in Peace’ in English. It is worth noting that Beckenbauer held great admiration for Lionel Messi and in 2015 even proclaimed, “Messi is a divine player, he is god-like.” The German legend has consistently showered LA Pulga with high praise throughout his career.

In addition to Lionel Messi, numerous soccer players and teams have expressed their condolences for the passing of the former World Cup champion.

Soccer world mourns the loss of ’emperor’ Franz Beckenbauer

FC Bayern Munich, the team where Franz Beckenbauer had a successful 13-year career as a player and later became the manager, expressed their deep condolences after his passing. In a poignant message on their official X account, the club stated, “Suddenly, our world isn’t the same as it once was — darker, quieter, and worse off… Rest in peace, Kaiser.”

Suddenly, our world isn’t the same as it once was — darker, quieter and worse off. The record champions are mourning the loss of Franz Beckenbauer, the incomparable ‘Kaiser’ without who FC Bayern would never have become the club it is today.

Rest in peace, Kaiser.

— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) January 8, 2024

Bayern Munich superstar Thomas Muller so shared his emotions through a heartfelt message: “One of the greatest footballers in the club’s history has unfortunately left us. Rest in peace, Emperor Franz. We will never forget what you have done for football in Germany.”

Einer der großartigsten Fußballer der Vereinsgeschichte des @FCBayern hat uns leider verlassen. 😞
Ruhe in Frieden, Kaiser Franz.
Wir werden nie vergessen, was du für den Fußball in Deutschland geleistet hast. #RIP #kaiser https://t.co/rvUOxCzaH7

— Thomas Müller (@esmuellert_) January 8, 2024

Liverpool’s official X account also expressed their condolences, describing Beckenbauer as “a true footballing icon.” The outpouring of affection and respect from all corners demonstrates just how significant this loss is for soccer enthusiasts everywhere.

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