Bayern star reacts to Franz Beckenbauer comparisons | OneFootball

It wasn’t a bad week for Mats Hummels.

The Bayern defender was handed the Germany captain’s armband for the first time on Friday as his side drew 0-0 with England at Wembley.

Hummels put in a strong performance and his general sturdiness and leadership have seen him earn comparisons to perhaps Germany’s greatest ever player: Franz Beckenbauer.

“I won’t say too much more about the comparisons [with Beckenbauer],” Hummels said modestly, “But it’s great. It’s just how I try to play.”

It’s easy to see why people see shades of Der Kaiser in Hummels. His keen sense of anticipation, general athleticism and ability to pass out of the back recall Beckenbauer and his sweeper role.

“I just love to play,” Hummels explained. “I love being in the thick of things, getting my head on the ball. It’s a great feeling when you head the ball clear.”

“Things are going really well right now. Hopefully it will continue like this.”