Kevin Keegan, born Joseph Kevin Keegan OBE on 14 February 1951, is an English former footballer and manager renowned for his exceptional dribbling skills, finishing, and aerial presence. His illustrious career spans playing for several top-tier clubs and managing prominent teams, including Newcastle United, Fulham, the England national team, and Manchester City.
Main Milestones
Birth
14 February 1951
Kevin Keegan was born in Armthorpe, Doncaster, England, marking the beginning of a life that would be deeply intertwined with football.
Professional Debut
1968
Keegan made his professional debut at Scunthorpe United, aged 17, showcasing his talent and catching the eye of Liverpool’s Bill Shankly.
Move to Liverpool
1971
Keegan moved to Liverpool, where he won three Division One Championships, two UEFA Cups, one FA Cup, and the European Cup, establishing himself as one of the greatest players of his era.
Transfer to Hamburg SV
1977
Keegan joined Hamburg SV in West Germany, becoming the highest-paid player in the country and earning the nickname 'Mighty Mouse.' He won European Footballer of the Year twice during his tenure.
Move to Southampton
1980
Keegan transferred to Southampton, where he played some of his best football, winning the PFA Player of the Year and the OBE for services to Association Football in 1982.
Signing with Newcastle United
1982
Keegan surprised fans by signing with Newcastle United, helping the team secure promotion to the top flight in 1984 before retiring from playing that same year.
Managerial Debut at Newcastle United
1992
Keegan took his first managerial role at Newcastle United, achieving promotion to the Premier League in 1993 and leading the team to a second-place finish in the 1995-96 season.
England National Team Manager
1999-2000
Keegan managed the England national team, resigning in October 2000 after a 1-0 loss against Germany in qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Manchester City Manager
2001-2005
Keegan became manager of Manchester City, guiding the team to promotion as champions in his first season and later qualifying for the UEFA Cup via the UEFA Fair Play ranking.
Second Spell at Newcastle United
2008
Keegan returned to Newcastle United for a second spell as manager, but this lasted only eight months, ending with his resignation in September 2008.
