Kevin Keegan, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner who inspired Liverpool to FA Cup glory and later managed Newcastle United, has died at the age of 75 after a battle with cancer, his family announced on Monday.
A statement released by Keegan's family read: "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 Keegan, two-time Ballon d'Or winner and Liverpool and Newcastle legend, dies aged 75 after cancer battle.”
Keegan's cancer diagnosis was confirmed in January, and last month he revealed the disease had reached stage four during an appearance at a fan event.
The attacking midfielder scored twice as Liverpool defeated Newcastle United 3-0 in the 1974 FA Cup final – a moment that encapsulated the brilliance of a player who would go on to win the Ballon d'Or twice, in 1978 and 1979.
Liverpool led the tributes, saying "Keegan's remarkable contributions will last forever." Newcastle United described him as "one of the most iconic figures in club history." Manchester City, whom Keegan also managed, honoured his "transformative" impact.
Alan Shearer, the former Newcastle and England striker, called Keegan "my hero." Andy Dunn, in a tribute, wrote: "In my memory, there has been no character in football as irrepressible as Kevin Keegan... a joy to watch, a joy to be around."
Keegan's international career – both as player and manager – was unforgettable, as described by John Cross, who called him a "real-life Roy of the Rovers star." The family have requested space and privacy at this hugely difficult time.