Death of Englishman Kevin Keegan
London (AFP) – The family of former Liverpool and England star Kevin Keegan announced his death on Monday at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer.
Keegan, considered one of the most prominent players of his generation, was diagnosed with stage four cancer and underwent treatment in January.
In a statement issued by Keegan’s family: “With deep sadness and sorrow, we announce the passing of Kevin Keegan at the age of 75.”
The statement added: “The former player and manager of the England national team was battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and two daughters in his final moments.”
It continued: “Kevin, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, was a deeply loved husband, father, and grandfather. The family extends its gratitude to the excellent medical team that supervised his care for all the support they provided.”
Keegan, the famous forward known for his energy and dynamism on the pitch and nicknamed “The Mighty Mouse,” won the English league title three times and the European Cup once with Liverpool between 1971 and 1977, before moving to German club Hamburg in 1977.
Keegan, who earned 63 caps for the “Three Lions” and scored 21 goals, won the German league title with Hamburg in 1979 and led them to the European Cup final in 1980. He also won the Ballon d’Or twice during his time with Hamburg, in 1978 and 1979.
For his part, Newcastle United said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential, and beloved figures in our club’s history. Kevin was more than just a footballer and a legendary manager. He was the heartbeat of Newcastle United for generations of fans.”
It added: “As a player, he brought global talent, ambition, and belief to St James’ Park, helping to change perceptions of what Newcastle United could become. As a manager, he ignited passion in our city. Kevin gave fans hope and pride, leading a team whose style, spirit, and passion captivated football fans around the world. He was much more than just a source of entertainment.”
Southampton also issued a statement saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. Kevin joined the club in 1980 as a Ballon d’Or winner, bringing great joy to the fans and football enthusiasts around the world.”
As a manager, Keegan led Newcastle to promotion to the Premier League in 1993 and established them among the top teams in the league, with the squad nicknamed “The Entertainers” after finishing as runners-up to Manchester United in 1996.
He also spent four years as manager of Manchester City (2001–2005) before concluding his managerial career with a brief return to Newcastle in 2008.
