Football Icon Kevin Keegan Dies at 75
England football legend Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer, bringing an end to the life of one of the sport's most celebrated players and managers.
Rest in peace, Kevin Keegan ❤️ pic.twitter.com/iBKipxY6c2
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 20, 2026
A family statement confirmed that Keegan passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and daughters after a period of illness.
One of England's greatest footballers, Keegan earned 63 international caps and scored 21 goals for the Three Lions. He captained England at the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain before later returning to lead the national team as manager between 1999 and 2000, guiding England to UEFA EURO 2000.
Rest in peace, Kevin ❤️
— England (@England) July 20, 2026
We will celebrate the life of Kevin Keegan when the #ThreeLions host Spain at Wembley Stadium in September.
Keegan's club career was equally extraordinary. After beginning at Scunthorpe United, he became a global star with Liverpool, winning three English league titles, the FA Cup, two UEFA Cups and the 1977 European Cup. His move to Hamburg saw him inspire the German club to the Bundesliga title and the European Cup final, while also becoming one of the few English players to win the Ballon d'Or in consecutive years (1978 and 1979).
Rest in peace, Kevin Keegan 🕊️
— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) July 20, 2026
Double Ballon d’Or winner, back-to-back in 1978 and 1979. Football icon.
Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/rEKJLvip5o
Following spells with Southampton and Newcastle United, Keegan retired before briefly returning to play in Australia. He later built a successful managerial career, famously transforming Newcastle United into Premier League title challengers, while also managing Fulham, England and Manchester City.
Rest in peace, "Mighty Mouse". 🕊️
— HSV English (@HSV_English) July 20, 2026
We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. The club legend has died at the age of 75. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. 🖤#nurderHSV pic.twitter.com/IjwdtYKqqK
Newcastle United paid tribute to their former player and manager, describing him as "one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club's history" and "the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters."
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former England captain and coach Kevin Keegan.
— UEFA (@UEFA) July 20, 2026
During an illustrious career, he won the European Cup, two UEFA Cups and two Ballon d'Or awards.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
Kevin Keegan's achievements as both a player and manager leave an enduring legacy in English and world football, inspiring generations with his passion, leadership and attacking style.
Kev we went back such a long way @England you will be missed so much by so many - a legend of the game sending my sincere condolences to his family pic.twitter.com/vkXCPVp5eN
— Peter Shilton (@Peter_Shilton) July 20, 2026