Philipp Lahm's name belongs alongside those of other Bayern Munich legends like Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller and Uli Hoeness, according to outgoing manager Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola, 45, is leaving Bayern to takeover from Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City next season, but he had nothing but glowing praise for Lahm and his captain's place among the Bavarian club's greats.
"Bayern have had legends such as Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller, Uli Hoeness and Kalle Rummenigge," Guardiola told Sport Bild.
"For me, Philipp Lahm is at the same level as those legends. He is the perfect captain for Bayern and has helped me a lot both on and off the pitch."
Guardiola called Lahm an inspiring player and credited him for helping make his transition from previous club Barcelona and the Primera Division to the Bundesliga a smooth one.
"He is the only right-back in the world who can dominate play from his position," he said.
"He always plays well. I have not seen Lahm play a single poor game over the past three seasons."