English legend and double Ballon d’Or winner Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Kevin Keegan, the English (Engels) football icon and two‑time Ballon d’Or winner, died on his 75th birthday after a battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by his family and sparked a heartfelt Instagram post from David Beckham, who wrote: “A sad day for English football.”

Keegan first shone as a striker for Liverpool in the 1970s, starring in the UEFA Cup‑final of 1976 where he became the feared opponent of Club Brugge. His performances in that Cup‑final cemented his reputation across Europe.

After leaving Liverpool, Keegan moved to Hamburg where he added two Gouden Bal awards to his résumé, confirming his status as a world‑class talent beyond the English game.

His influence continued off the pitch. Alan Shearer, a former protégé, posted “Sleep well, boss” after the death, while Philippe Albert, the Belgian (Belg) forward, remembered playing under Keegan’s guidance at Newcastle.

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The family announced the loss via a statement to , quoted by FieremansSportjournalist Bart FieremansSportjournalist at HLN20. “Kevin suffered from cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments,” the release read. De announcement came Na the club’s official channels, Bij the club’s website, and Ook on social media.

Keegan’s trophy cabinet includes three English league titles, an FA Cup, a European Cup‑1 triumph in 1977 and two UEFA Cup victories. He also featured for England at Euro 1980, where the Belgian side drew 1‑1 with the English (Engelse) team, Keegan starting the match.

After hanging up his boots, Keegan managed Newcastle, Fulham, Manchester City and the English national side, shaping the next generation of players and coaches.

The English football community mourns the passing of a true legend, remembering his contributions as a player, manager and ambassador of the game.