Kevin Keegan, a celebrated footballer and manager, has died at the age of 75. Known for his successful playing career with clubs including Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle, Keegan was twice named European Footballer of the Year. Following his playing days, he managed several teams, including Newcastle United, Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team.

Earlier in 2026, Keegan publicly revealed that he was battling stage four cancer, the most advanced stage of the disease. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the football community.

Alan Shearer, a prominent former striker who played under Keegan at both Newcastle and for England, expressed his condolences, calling Keegan “my hero, my manager, my friend” and adding a personal farewell: “Sleep easy Boss.”

Faustino Asprilla, the Colombian former Newcastle forward, also paid tribute, highlighting Keegan’s influence on and off the pitch. Asprilla noted that Keegan’s passion and love for the game inspired many people, including himself, and that Keegan emphasized football’s value beyond just winning matches.

Keegan’s contributions to football, both as a dynamic forward and a passionate manager, left a lasting impact on the clubs he represented and the players he mentored. His death marks the end of a significant era in English and international football.