Thierry Henry vs Franz Beckenbauer
France against Germany. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Thierry Henry
France · 1997–2010 · SS
- Almanac rating
- 94
- Rank in France
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 123 · 51 goals
- Clubs
- AS Monaco, Arsenal, New York Red Bulls
- Honours
- 2× national Player of the Year (2003–2003) · European Golden Shoe 2004 · Golden Boot 2002
With his back to goal at Highbury on 1 October 2000, Denis Irwin tight behind him, he flicked the ball up, spun and volleyed it over Fabien Barthez in one motion. France won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with him in the side, Barcelona the 2009 Champions League, and he took two league titles at Arsenal, including the unbeaten season of 2003/04, leaving as their record scorer on 228 goals. Career record: 123 caps and 51 goals for France; club career at AS Monaco, Arsenal, New York Red Bulls; honours include European Golden Shoe 2004, Golden Boot 2002, 2× national Player of the Year (2003–2003).
Franz Beckenbauer
Germany · 1970s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 98
- Rank in Germany
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 103 · 14 goals
- Clubs
- FC Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos, Hamburger SV
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · 4× national Player of the Year (1966–1976) · 7× Hall of Fame (1976–2018)
The iconic "Der Kaiser," Beckenbauer redefined the libero role, winning the 1974 World Cup as captain and two Ballon d'Or awards for his elegant play. Career record: 103 caps and 14 goals for Germany; club career at FC Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos, Hamburger SV; honours include Ballon d'Or, 4× national Player of the Year (1966–1976), 7× Hall of Fame (1976–2018).
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 4 rating points, 98 against 94.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.