Der Weggang der Großen und der Liebling der Fans, ein Kroate erinnerte sich für alle Zeiten: Niemand hat mich je so gequält

Kevin Keegan, one of England's most celebrated football figures and a global icon of the sport, has died at the age of 75 after a battle with illness. His passing was announced on Monday, marking the end of a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on both the playing and coaching sides of the game. Diagnosed with a severe illness just under two months before his death, Keegan had been undergoing treatment, though he ultimately succumbed to the disease. Keegan’s professional journey began in the early 1970s, when he joined Scunthorpe United before moving to Liverpool in 1971. At Liverpool, he became a key figure, helping the club secure three league titles during his time there, from 1971 to 1977. He also played a pivotal role in Liverpool's European Cup victory in 1977, a feat that marked him as one of the standout players of that era. During his tenure at Anfield, Keegan earned recognition as a double winner of the Ballon d'Or, awarded in 1978 and 1979, cementing his reputation as one of the finest talents in world football. His move to Germany in 1977 was controversial. The transfer to Hamburg SV came with a record-breaking compensation fee of £500,000, which was unprecedented at the time. While his salary increased dramatically, rising from £22,000 per year at Liverpool to £122,000 annually in Hamburg, the transition was not without challenges. Upon arrival, some veteran players were reportedly reluctant to accept him, and tensions flared during a friendly match against Lübeck, leading to a suspension. However, Keegan adapted quickly, learning German and earning the respect of teammates through his performances on the field. One of the most notable relationships in Keegan’s career was with Croatian coach Branko Zebec, who managed HSV during his time in Hamburg. According to Keegan, Zebec imposed an intense training regimen that pushed players to their limits. Reflecting on this later in life, Keegan once remarked that no other coach had ever physically exhausted him as much as Zebec. Despite the grueling workouts, Keegan credited Zebec as one of the best coaches he had worked under, even sharing anecdotes about the strict discipline and camaraderie they developed. After leaving Hamburg in 1980, Keegan continued his career with Southampton and later moved to Newcastle United, where he made a significant impact. His time at Newcastle saw the club rise from the second division to the top flight, and he became a fan favorite. His final appearance for Newcastle was memorable, he left the pitch via helicopter dressed in the club's black-and-white kit during a friendly against Liverpool. Though he officially retired in 1983, he returned briefly to play for Blacktown in 1984. Beyond his playing days, Keegan remained active in football, taking on roles as a manager and coach for clubs such as Newcastle, Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team. His leadership style and tactical acumen were widely respected, and he often spoke highly of his experiences with players and coaches from different countries. In addition to his sporting achievements, Keegan ventured into music, releasing singles such as "Ain't Easy" in 1972 while still playing for Liverpool and another track titled "Head Over Heels In Love" during his time at HSV. He also starred in a commercial alongside boxer Henry Cooper for the Brut shaving cream brand. Keegan’s legacy extends beyond statistics and trophies. Colleagues and former teammates have shared personal stories about his character, describing him as passionate, eloquent, curious, and generous. Ivan Buljan, who played alongside Keegan at HSV, recalled how Keegan lived the life of a true professional, often traveling directly from his accommodation to training sessions and matches. Their friendship endured long after their playing careers ended, with Keegan even organizing social events for his teammates. Another teammate, Ivan Katalinić, remembered Keegan fondly, noting his humility despite his fame. He recounted a humorous anecdote involving Zebec, where Keegan arrived late for training and jokingly said, “Sorry, coach,” only to be met with a response from Zebec: “Sorry, Kevin.” This light-hearted moment reflected the mutual respect between player and coach. As the football world mourns the loss of a true giant, Keegan’s contributions to the sport will continue to be felt. His influence on the game, both as a player and a coach, leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories and lessons for future generations.