Cancer diagnosis
HSV legend Kevin Keegan is seriously ill
01/08/2026 – 02:31 amReading time: 2 minutes
Kevin Keegan’s family announces: The former HSV star is suffering from cancer. What is known about his health.
The English football legend and former HSV star Kevin Keegan is suffering from cancer. The 74-year-old’s family announced this on Wednesday. Keegan was recently taken to hospital for an examination due to persistent abdominal problems.
“These examinations revealed the diagnosis of cancer, which is why Kevin will undergo treatment,” said the family’s statement, which was quoted by the British media and Keegan’s former clubs. “Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care. During this difficult time, the family requests privacy and will have no further comment.”
The Englishman was one of the best players in Europe in the 1970s and 80s. With Liverpool FC he won the English championship three times between 1971 and 1977, the UEFA Cup twice and the European Cup. He scored 100 times in 323 games for the Reds.
In 1977 Keegan moved to Hamburg. The only 1.70 meter tall attacker, whom fans called “Mighty Mouse”, was… HSV to a celebrated star. In 1979 he won the German championship with the Hanseatic League. During his time on the Elbe, the jury named him European Footballer of the Year twice in a row – in 1978 and 1979. He scored 30 goals for HSV in two seasons.
Keegan played 63 international matches for the English national team and scored 21 goals. He later coached Newcastle United, Manchester City and the Three Lions, among others. At the 2000 European Championships, he led England to a 1-0 win against Germany.
His former clubs expressed their support for Keegan. “The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds go out to Kevin Keegan,” wrote Liverpool FC. Newcastle United wished “King Kev” a full and speedy recovery: “We are by your side every step of the way.”