Germany and Australia · Football
The 11 + 1 Best German Soccer Players of All Time
Updated 20 August 2024
Impact and Inspiration for Australian Football
Germany has a storied history in world football, producing some of the greatest players the game has ever seen. These legends have left their mark not only in Europe but across the globe, influencing football cultures far and wide, including in Australia. In this post, we take a look at the 11 best German soccer players of all time, one for each position, plus a legendary coach who shaped the nation’s footballing identity. Along the way, we’ll explore how these icons have inspired Australian football and its players.
1. Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer (*1986)
Manuel Neuer revolutionized the goalkeeper position with his “sweeper-keeper” style, acting as both a shot-stopper and an additional outfield player. His influence extends beyond Germany, with Australian goalkeepers like Mathew Ryan adopting similar approaches.
Fun Fact: Neuer enjoys skiing in his free time, despite its risks to his football career.
2. Right Back: Philipp Lahm (*1983)
Philipp Lahm is celebrated for his versatility, having excelled in both right-back and left-back roles. He captained Germany to World Cup victory in 2014. His disciplined, clean style of play serves as a model for Australian full-backs looking to emulate his consistency.
Fun Fact: Lahm never received a red card throughout his professional career.
3. Left Back: Paul Breitner (*1951)
Paul Breitner was not only a world-class left-back but also a formidable midfielder. His ability to transition between defense and attack has been a blueprint for modern Australian full-backs and midfielders alike.
Fun Fact: Breitner famously refused to shake hands with Spanish dictator Franco when Real Madrid won the Copa del Rey in 1975.
4. Center Back: Franz Beckenbauer (*1945)
Franz Beckenbauer, “Der Kaiser,” revolutionized the role of the sweeper, combining defensive solidity with attacking creativity. His tactical intelligence and leadership qualities are studied in Australian football academies as a benchmark for aspiring defenders and leaders.
Fun Fact: Beckenbauer is one of only three men to have won the World Cup as both a player and a coach.
5. Center Back: Matthias Sammer (*1967)
Matthias Sammer was a defensive rock, known for his tactical awareness and leadership on the field. His transition from midfield to defense is a path that many Australian players have followed, showcasing the importance of versatility in the modern game.
Fun Fact: Sammer won the Ballon d’Or in 1996, the same year he led Germany to victory in the UEFA European Championship.
6. Defensive Midfielder: Lothar Matthäus (*1961)
Lothar Matthäus holds the record for the most World Cup appearances, with 25 matches across five tournaments. His all-around capabilities and leadership have made him a role model for Australian midfielders looking to command the field.
Fun Fact: Matthäus maintained a friendly rivalry with Diego Maradona, despite their intense battles on the pitch.
7. Central Midfielder: Günter Netzer (*1944)
Günter Netzer was a creative genius known for his exceptional passing and vision. His influence on German football in the 1970s parallels the way key Australian players have shaped the A-League.
Fun Fact: Netzer once substituted himself into a match while serving as player-manager for Borussia Mönchengladbach and went on to score the winning goal.
8. Attacking Midfielder: Michael Ballack (*1976)
Michael Ballack was a dominant force in midfield, known for his goal-scoring ability and leadership. His ability to influence games from midfield has been a source of inspiration for Australian players looking to take control of the match.
Fun Fact: Ballack is often referred to as the “nearly man” of football, having finished runner-up in numerous major competitions, including the World Cup and Champions League.
9. Right Winger: Thomas Müller (*1989)
Thomas Müller is a unique player, often described as a “Raumdeuter” (space interpreter) due to his ability to find space and score goals. His playing style is something Australian players are encouraged to study and emulate.
Fun Fact: Müller’s quirky personality has made him a fan favorite in Australia, both on and off the pitch.
10. Left Winger: Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (*1955)
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge was a fast, skillful winger with a keen eye for goal. His playing style is a template for Australian wingers, both in the A-League and on the national team.
Fun Fact: After retiring, Rummenigge played a key role in Bayern Munich’s management, helping the club become a powerhouse in European football.
11. Striker: Gerd Müller (*1945 – †2021)
Gerd Müller, “Der Bomber,” is one of the greatest goal-scorers in football history, with an unmatched scoring record for both Germany and Bayern Munich. His goal-scoring instincts have served as inspiration for Australian strikers like Tim Cahill.
Fun Fact: Despite his incredible success, Müller was known for his modesty and often downplayed his achievements.
12. Coach: Sepp Herberger (*1897 – †1977)
Sepp Herberger was the mastermind behind Germany’s first World Cup victory in 1954, known as “The Miracle of Bern.” His tactical innovations and motivational skills have influenced coaching philosophies worldwide, including in Australia.
Fun Fact: Herberger’s famous quote, “The ball is round, and the game lasts 90 minutes,” is a staple in Australian coaching culture.
Conclusion
These 11 players, along with the legendary coach Sepp Herberger, have not only shaped the history of German football but have also left a lasting impact on Australian football. Whether it’s Neuer’s revolutionary goalkeeping or Beckenbauer’s tactical brilliance, their influence can be seen in the development of players and coaches in Australia. As the A-League continues to grow, the legacy of these German icons will undoubtedly continue to inspire the next generation of Australian footballers.