Former England manager and Liverpool great Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 after battling cancer. Widely regarded as one of the finest footballers of his generation, Keegan enjoyed a glittering playing career before moving into management, where he famously led Newcastle United and later took charge of the England national team.

His family confirmed the news in a statement, revealing that he passed away surrounded by his loved ones.

“It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75,” the statement read. “Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.”

The family also paid tribute to his achievements both on and off the pitch.

“A double Ballon D’or winner, Kevin was a much loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”

Earlier this year, Keegan’s family disclosed that he had cancer. In June, the former footballer confirmed that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer.

Kevin Keegan’s rise from Scunthorpe to Liverpool stardom

Keegan began his professional career with Scunthorpe United before Liverpool manager Bill Shankly signed him for just £33,000 in 1971. The move proved to be one of the club’s greatest bargains. During his time at Anfield, Keegan helped Liverpool win three First Division titles, the FA Cup, two UEFA Cups and the 1977 European Cup.

Despite becoming one of Europe’s biggest stars, Keegan often credited his success to hard work rather than natural ability. Reflecting on the influence of legendary manager Bill Shankly, he once said, “I learned so much from Shanks. Shankley used to say: ‘If I was a road sweeper, my street would be the cleanest in the borough.’ I took that to heart.”

Ballon d’Or success and England career

Following Liverpool’s European Cup triumph, Keegan moved to German club Hamburger SV in 1977, becoming one of the first English footballers to build a successful career on the continent.

His performances in Germany earned him back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 1978 and 1979, making him the only British player to win the prestigious honour twice.

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On the international stage, Keegan represented England 63 times and scored 21 goals. He captained his country at the 1980 European Championship and later appeared at the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

Keevin Keegan with Ballon d'Or
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Keevin Keegan with Ballon d’Or in 1978 | X [The Guardian]

Away from football, Keegan also became a recognisable public figure thanks to his distinctive hairstyle, television appearances and advertising work.

Memorable managerial career

Keegan moved into management in 1992 when he returned to Newcastle United. He guided the club into the Premier League and came close to delivering the 1995-96 league title before Manchester United overtook them in the closing stages of the season.

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His passionate “I will love it” outburst during the title race remains one of the most memorable moments in Premier League history.

After leaving Newcastle in 1997, Keegan briefly managed Fulham before becoming England manager in 1999. His time in charge of the national team lasted 20 months, ending after England’s defeat to Germany at Wembley Stadium during the Euro 2000 campaign.

He later managed Manchester City before stepping away from football in 2005. In 2008, Keegan made an emotional return to Newcastle United for a second spell, but left the club after eight months following disagreements with the board and owner Mike Ashley.

A tribunal in 2009 awarded Keegan £2 million in damages for constructive dismissal.

From his remarkable achievements as a player to his unforgettable moments as a manager, Kevin Keegan’s contribution to English football spanned decades. His success with Liverpool, Hamburg, Newcastle United and England ensured his place among the game’s most influential figures.

FAQs

How old was Kevin Keegan when he died?

Kevin Keegan died at the age of 75 after battling stage four cancer.

What were Kevin Keegan’s biggest achievements?

Keegan won two Ballon d’Or awards, three First Division titles, the European Cup with Liverpool, and later managed Newcastle United, England and Manchester City.