Former Manchester United players Gary Neville, Roy Keane, and Paul Scholes shared their opinions on who they believe is the best German footballer of all time, with one notable restriction: they were not allowed to choose Franz Beckenbauer. This twist, highlighted in a clip on The Overlap’s TikTok, prompted a thoughtful discussion among the trio, as Beckenbauer is often seen as the quintessential choice for such a title.
Beckenbauer, a legendary defender, achieved remarkable success with West Germany, winning the 1974 FIFA World Cup and earning two Ballon d’Or awards during his illustrious career. His accolades also include three Bundesliga titles and three European Cups with Bayern Munich. The conversation shifted focus from Beckenbauer to other German football icons, sparking a lively debate on the diverse talents that have emerged from the country.
As the discussion unfolded, Scholes took a different path by selecting Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. He praised the former Bayern Munich forward for his scoring ability and significant presence in European football during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Rummenigge, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, exemplified precision and dominance in attack, illustrating Scholes’ preference for a forward’s impact over that of a midfielder.
Later in the conversation, Ian Wright entered the fray, advocating for Thomas Müller. Wright described Müller as one of the most intelligent and adaptable players of the modern era. His exceptional off-ball movement and role in Germany’s 2014 World Cup victory highlight a style of greatness characterized by subtleties rather than flashy displays.
As the trio articulated their choices, Gary Neville firmly stated his preference for Lothar Matthäus. Keane echoed this sentiment, noting, “I’d go along with that. He’s gone under my radar for a while.” Matthäus captained West Germany to their 1990 World Cup triumph and won the Ballon d’Or that same year. His career spanned both the Bundesliga and Serie A, where he achieved success with Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, respectively. Known for his longevity and versatility, Matthäus is celebrated as one of the most complete midfielders in football history.
With Beckenbauer off the table, Matthäus emerged as a fitting successor in the lineage of German football legends, reflecting the depth of talent that Germany has produced over the decades. The conversation not only engaged former players but also fans who appreciate the rich history of football in Germany. As discussions like these continue, they remind us of the lasting impact these athletes have made on the sport.
