Kevin Keegan, England's only double Ballon d'Or winner, dies of cancer at 75

Herz — Sport Desk · 20 July 2026 at 18:14 · 30s summary · 2 min read

What we know

Kevin Keegan died of cancer on July 20, 2026, at the age of 75. His family announced his death on the same Monday, according to 24 heures and Tribune de Genève.

Born February 14, 1951, in Armthorpe under the given name Joseph, Keegan was 75 years old at the time of his death.

Double Ballon d'Or: An exceptionally rare achievement

Keegan is the only English player to win the Ballon d'Or — the award presented annually to the world's best footballer — twice in consecutive years, in 1978 and 1979.

Club achievements

With Liverpool, Keegan won the European Cup — the former name for what is now the UEFA Champions League, the most prestigious club competition on the continent — in 1977, in a final played on May 25 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

He also won three English league championships during his playing career.

International career

On the international stage, Keegan earned 63 caps for England between 1972 and 1982, scoring 21 goals.

Career in management

After retiring from playing, Keegan notably managed Newcastle United before taking charge of the England national team in 1999. He left the position in 2000.

Timeline

1. 14 February 1951
   Joseph Keegan is born in Armthorpe, England.
2. Kevin Keegan makes his first appearance for England's national team.