DFB expresses regret over the demise of Frank Müller.
In a recent turn of events, the German Football Association (DFB) has clarified that Rot-Weiss Essen, one of the former clubs of the late Frank Mill, was not omitted from the official obituaries and tributes related to the World Cup winner.
Frank Mill, a key player in West Germany's 1990 World Cup-winning squad, passed away on August 5 due to complications from a heart attack. His former clubs, including Fortuna Düsseldorf and Rot-Weiss Essen, confirmed his death and paid tribute to the legendary footballer. The Bundesliga and other football institutions also reported his passing and recognized his illustrious career.
The confusion arose when it was suggested that Rot-Weiss Essen was not mentioned in the DFB's obituary for Frank Mill. However, after a thorough review of the available coverage and official statements, it appears that there is no basis for such a claim. Rot-Weiss Essen, where Mill began his professional football career as a 14-year-old and played from 1972 to 1981, publicly acknowledged his death and honoured him as "a legend" and "an ambassador for football".
Andreas Rettig, DFB CEO, acknowledged the oversight in the obituary and expressed his regret. He stated that Rot-Weiss Essen, Mill's training club, should have been recognised in the obituary. The DFB has since apologised for the oversight and assured that it was not intentional.
Frank Mill's career was not limited to Rot-Weiss Essen. He later played for Borussia Mönchengladbach, Borussia Dortmund, and Fortuna Düsseldorf. During his time at Rot-Weiss Essen, Mill was the top scorer in the 2. Bundesliga, scoring an impressive 40 goals in 38 games in his final season at Hafenstraße stadium. According to the "Transfermarkt.de" portal, Mill made a total of 90 goals for Rot-Weiss Essen.
The anger of Rot-Weiss Essen fans is understandable given the DFB's oversight. However, the DFB's obituary for Frank Mill has been published in regional newspapers, and the association has taken steps to rectify the situation.
Mill's impact on German football extends beyond his playing career. As a member of the German Olympic team, he made 20 appearances. During the 1988 European Championship and the 1990 World Cup, he made a total of 17 A-international appearances. His total appearances and goals for all clubs combined, as per "Transfermarkt.de", are 647 and 252 respectively.
In remembrance of Frank Mill, the football community continues to celebrate his life and contributions to the sport. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans and players alike.
- Despite the initial confusion, Rot-Weiss Essen, being Frank Mill's first professional football club and a significant part of his career, publicly acknowledged his death and paid tribute to him, demonstrating solidarity with the wider football community in celebrating Mill's life and legacy.
- Beyond football, Frank Mill's contribution to sports extends to his service in the German Olympic team, and his popularity and impact echo across various sports communities, not just limited to football.
