ballck - His outstanding play as central midfielder for Chemnitzer FC however, earned him the nickname 'Little Kaiser' from the team's fans, in reference to legendary German national team captain, Franz Beckenbauer, who was nicknamed 'The Keiser', or the King. However, playing in the second division wasn't exposing the talented player well enough and you probably wouldn’t be reading this Michael Ballack biography if it wasn't for Otto Rehhagel and his keen scout eye.