Hans Kalb

Hans Kalb was regarded as the “best German football player” of his era. He not only organized the defense of the German champion teams for 1. FC Nürnberg (1920-21, 1924-25, 1927), but due to his leadership Nürnberg was unbeaten in 104 consecutive games, still a German record, as of 2016.

However, the long-time captain of the German national team was not without controversy. His penchant for good food and alcohol meant that he gained weight over time, and was criticized for his lack of self-control. Finally in 1928 his intemperance led to the end of his national team career. Kalb earned 15 international caps and scored two goals. He was a dentist by profession and also worked as a trainer (1936-39 at 1.FC Nürnberg), becoming German Champion again in 1936. Kalb died in the last days of World War II due to blood poisoning.