Kevin Keegan, the revered figure from Newcastle and England, has passed away at the age of 75.

His family confirmed the news on Monday, July 20, through a public statement.

Earlier this year, it had been revealed that the former player and manager was receiving treatment for cancer.

The family wrote that they were deeply sorrowful to confirm his passing. He had been fighting the illness and was with his wife and daughters when he died. As a two-time Ballon d’Or recipient, he was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. The family expressed gratitude to the medical professionals who had supported him. They asked for understanding and privacy during this challenging time.

During his time as a player between 1968 and 1985, he operated as a forward for Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle United and the German side Hamburg. He secured several First Division championships, the FA Cup and the European Cup during his career.

The former England international earned 63 caps for his country. He later took charge of the national team between 1999 and 2000, departing after the group phase of Euro 2000.

His managerial career included spells at Manchester City and, most notably, Newcastle United across two separate periods: first from 1992 to 1997, then again in 2008.

Reports indicate that Oxford United played a significant role in his appointment when they defeated Newcastle 5-2 at their Oxford stadium in 1992. Both clubs were battling against relegation in the old Division Two, which later became the Championship, at a time when English football was transitioning before the Premier League era.

Following that match, Keegan was hired to rescue Newcastle, with both clubs ultimately surviving the drop. The subsequent campaign saw Newcastle claim the division title and promotion to the newly-formed Premier League.

This set the stage for the memorable title challenge between Newcastle and Manchester United during the 1995-96 season, which ended in victory for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.

During a television interview that campaign, an emotional Keegan publicly addressed the Scottish manager regarding a disagreement. He expressed his strong desire for Newcastle to beat Manchester United, declaring that he would love it if they defeated them. This moment was recognised as the Quote of the Decade in the Premier League’s 10 Seasons Awards.

Following his final coaching position, he worked as a television analyst for ITV and ESPN.

He also made an appearance at Oxford United’s Kassam Stadium for a special An Evening With Kevin Keegan occasion, sharing stories from his career with supporters of the club.