England mourns Kevin Keegan, two‑time Ballon d’Or legend

De Engelse football world mourns the loss of Kevin Keegan, 75, who died today after a battle with cancer. The former manager of Engeland and two‑time Ballon d’Or winner was a celebrated figure whose influence spanned playing and coaching careers.

Keegan first made his name as a forward at Liverpool, where he became a fan favourite, before moving to Hamburger SV, Southampton and Newcastle United. At HSV he was simply known as the star striker of HSV, and his spell at Southampton yielded even more goals.

He earned 63 caps for England, representing the Three Lions with distinction and scoring numerous goals for the national side, reinforcing his reputation as a prolific attacker.

While playing for HSV, Keegan was voted the best player in the world in consecutive years, receiving the Ballon d’Or in 1978 and again in 1979, underscoring his dominance on the European stage.

Almost eight years after hanging up his boots, Keegan entered management, beginning at Newcastle United where he later acquired the nickname King Kev.

He subsequently took charge of Fulham and Manchester City before being appointed as the England national team coach.

During his coaching tenure, players and the media often referred to him simply as Kev, a testament to his charismatic presence; his leadership emphasized attacking football, reflecting his own playing philosophy.

Tributes poured in from clubs and former teammates, highlighting the void his passing leaves in the English football community and the breadth of his impact on the game.