German football has lost one of its finest players. Former striker Frank Mill, a member of West Germany’s 1990 World Cup-winning team, died at the age of 67 following complications from a heart attack in May.
Stellar career
Mill’s career began at Rot-Weiss Essen, where his natural goalscoring ability soon caught people’s attention. In 1981, he moved to Borussia Monchengladbach, where he spent five successful seasons before joining Borussia Dortmund in 1986. In eight years with Dortmund, Mill became a fans’ favourite, remembered for his intelligent moves, technical ability, and commitment to the team.
He earned 17 caps for West Germany, including appearances at the 1990 FIFA World Cup and the 1988 Olympic Games, where he won a bronze medal. His genuine and total commitment to the national team is what made him such a respected player.
Frank Mill- Final months
At the end of May, Mill suffered a heart attack in his car while at Milan Malpensa Airport to take part in a documentary about West Germany’s 1990 triumph. According to reports, he stopped breathing for several minutes before paramedics revived him. He was airlifted to hospital and later treated in his hometown of Essen, but sadly passed away on the morning of 5 August.
Tributes paid
Emotional tributes have been paid by clubs, team-mates, and fans. Fortuna Düsseldorf, where Mill played his final match of his playing career, wrote:
“Frank Mill, rest in peace.
Rot-Weiss Essen also honoured their former striker, calling him a “legend” and celebrating his 165 games and 90 goals for the club.
An indelible legacy
Frank Mill will be remembered not only for his goals and medals, but also for his passion, humility and love for the game. A true servant of German football, his legacy will live on in the memories of those who watched him play and those who knew him personally.
