Why compare Johan Cruyff and Franz Beckenbauer?

Franz Beckenbauer was a German football legend and a rival of Johan Cruyff's on the pitch. The two players had a complex and often intense rivalry, but ultimately, they shared a deep respect for each other's skills and achievements.

Johan Cruyff

Key numbers

  • Goals scored193
  • Games played518
  • Trophies wonover 1,000
  • Years played1964-1984
  • Teams played forAjax, Barcelona, Los Angeles Aztecs, Washington Diplomats, Levante, Feyenoord

Top honours

  • Ballon d'Or1971, 1973, 1974
  • Eredivisie6 titles
  • European Cup3 titles
  • Intercontinental Cup1 title
  • FIFA World Cup runner-up1974
VS

Franz Beckenbauer

Franz Beckenbauer is a leading contemporary in the sport — head-to-head meetings with this athlete are among the most closely followed in the era.