Kevin Keegan’s family issue emotional statement as Liverpool legend dies aged 75 | Football | Sport
Kevin Keegan has tragically died at the age of 75, his family have announced. It was announced back in January that the former England player and manager, who is a legend at former clubs Liverpool and Newcastle, had been diagnosed with stage four cancer. But despite undergoing treatment, the two-time Ballon d’Or winner has sadly died surrounded by his wife and two daughters.
An emotional statement from the family read: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments. Kevin, a double Ballon d’Or winner, 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.”
Newcastle said on X: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history. Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.”
Liverpool said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Kevin Keegan and mourn his loss. His indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history and his legacy will live on. Rest in peace, Kevin. 1951-2026.”
While the official account for the England national team wrote: “We are incredibly saddened by the news that Kevin Keegan OBE has passed away.
“Kevin earned 63 international caps and scored 21 goals between 1972 and 1982, before managing the #ThreeLions from 1999 to 2000. Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin’s family, friends and former clubs.”
Man City said: “Everyone at Manchester City is devastated to learn our former manager Kevin Keegan has passed away, aged 75. Kevin was a transformative manager who brought optimism and vibrancy to City during his four-year spell in charge.
“The promotion campaign in 2001-02 will never be forgotten, and Kevin then established us once again as a top Premier League side in the years that followed. Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”
Keegan is revered as one of the best players of his generation and enjoyed a glittering playing career between 1968 and 1984, highlighted by the two Ballon d’Ors he won while at Hamburg in Germany. Before that, he won three First Division titles, one FA Cup, one European Cup, and two UEFA Cups with Liverpool.
He won three Bundesliga titles in Germany before returning to England for spells with Southampton and Newcastle, whom he also later managed. The Doncaster native also scored 21 goals in 63 games for his country.
As a coach, Keegan managed 273 matches at Newcastle in two separate spells, almost taking them to Premier League glory in the 1990s when they finished second twice and became known as ‘The Entertainers.’
EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
After leaving St James’ Park the first time, he had a stint with Fulham before taking on the England job between February 1999 and October 2000.
Keegan ultimately resigned from the Three Lions but also coached Manchester City for four years before returning to Newcastle for a second spell. He resigned in September 2008 due to tensions with the club’s board and never worked as a coach again.
Southampton said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. Kevin signed for the club in 1980 as the holder of the Ballon d’Or and brought great joy to fans at The Dell and across the football world. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
While Newcastle wrote in an extended tribute on their website: “As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be.
“As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an Entertainer.
“Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.
“Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him.
“At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
“Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy. Rest in Peace, King Kev.”
