Football legend and former England manager Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, his family confirmed in a statement on Wednesday, 7th January 2026.
Family Statement Requests Privacy
The 74-year-old was admitted to hospital for an assessment of persistent abdominal symptoms. Further medical investigations led to the cancer diagnosis. Keegan will soon begin a course of treatment.
In their announcement, the family expressed gratitude to the medical professionals involved. "Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care," the statement read. They have asked for privacy during this challenging time and stated they will not be making any further comments.
Football World Rallies Behind 'King Kev'
The news prompted an immediate outpouring of support from across the football community. Newcastle United, one of Keegan's former clubs, posted a message of solidarity on social media platform X. The club's post read: "Our former player & manager, Kevin Keegan will undergo treatment... King Kev. We're with you every step of the way. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery."
Keegan, affectionately known as 'King Kev', is revered as one of the finest English footballers of his generation. His career began at Scunthorpe United before legendary Liverpool manager Bill Shankly signed him in 1971.
A Stellar Playing Career
During his time at Anfield, Keegan scored 100 goals in 323 appearances and was instrumental in a period of immense success. He helped Liverpool secure three First Division titles, two UEFA Cups, an FA Cup, and the European Cup.
As a key figure for England throughout the 1970s, he captained the national side 31 times, including at the UEFA European Championship in 1980. A subsequent move to German club Hamburger SV saw his talents recognised on the continent, where he was crowned European Footballer of the Year in consecutive years, 1978 and 1979.
Following his retirement from playing, Keegan moved into management, taking the helm at Newcastle United, Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team. His passionate and attacking philosophy made him a hugely popular figure with fans at every club he led.
The thoughts of the football world are now with Kevin Keegan and his family as he prepares to begin his treatment.
