Klaus Augenthaler
After Beckenbauer’s departure in 1977, Die Roten found another jewel to play in the libero- the final defender in a system. Klaus Augenthaler made the step up to the first team after Der Kaiser left for New York Cosmos. He brought curtains to his Bayern and playing career in 1991.
Augenthaler had similar qualities as Beckenbauer on the pitch. Since he largely played as libero in the latter stages of his career, Augenthaler showed a great degree of composure on the ball and dictated the tempo of the game. The former German international was also a reliable defender, backing himself to win duels against all types of forwards.
At one point, Augenthaler was the only player to win seven Bundesliga titles. He was the backbone of the side that excelled during the 1980s in Germany’s top division. Die Roten won three consecutive titles between 1984 and 1987. He also tasted success with the national team, winning the World Cup in 1990.
Augenthaler would have been up there with Beckenbauer in the first spot, but European titles helped the latter to clinch the top spot in the list. During his 15-year long career in Bavaria, Augenthaler racked up 549 appearances, contributing to 90 goals across all competitions. (Stats Courtesy: Transfermarkt)