Just a day after the football world celebrated the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup 2026, it was plunged into mourning following the death of former England, Liverpool and Newcastle United legend Kevin Keegan. The legendary striker later served as the manager of the England football team.

Tributes have come from all corners of the football world, fellow athletes, and supporters of the 2 time Ballon d’Or winner, including his family and friends.

Here is the official statement from his family:

“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.”

A Legendary Career Wreathed In Gold

As a player, Keegan was one of the best centre-forwards of his era. Having played for Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburger SV, Southampton, and Newcastle United, he enjoyed a glittering playing career.

His most successful run came with Liverpool, where he won 3 First Division titles, a European Cup, an FA Cup, and 2 UEFA Cups under manager Bill Shankly. Later, during his stint with Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga, he won back-to-back Ballon d’Ors in 1978 and 1979. Interestingly, he is still the only British player to have won the trophy more than once. Playing for England, he also had 63 caps and captained the Three Lions on 31 occasions.

Manager ‘Kevin Keegan’

Following his successful career as a player, Keegan transitioned into a high-profile football manager, taking charge of Newcastle United, Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team. At Newcastle United, Keegan built one of the Premier League’s most captivating teams, famously nicknamed “The Entertainers” for their fearless, attack-minded football as they mounted a memorable title challenge in the mid-1990s.
He later took charge of the England national team, serving as manager from February 1999 to October 2000. During his tenure, he guided the Three Lions through their UEFA Euro 2000 qualifying campaign before stepping down later that year.