The Germany legend says the use of technology in football will go far beyond the use of goal-line cameras in future.
Bayern Munich honorary president Franz Beckenbauer believes that referees will eventually be replaced by drones hovering over the pitch as the use of technology grows in football.
The Bundesliga has approved the use of goal-line technology for the 2015-16 season onwards, following its successful deployment in the Premier League this term.
Beckenbauer, however, feels even referees could ultimately become obsolete as the game embraces more and more technological advances.
“We are living in a century that’s all about technology. We all know that it doesn’t end with goal-line technology,” Beckenbauer told Sky90.
“At some point, we won’t even need a referee any more. Drones will be keeping an eye on whatever happens on the pitch at some point.
“I genuinely think this is the future. I won’t be alive when it happens, though, so it’s up to other people to fight it.
“This isn’t something that’s been discussed at Fifa. It’s just a personal idea of mine.”
