Newcastle United and Liverpool are currently coordinating a tribute to honor the late Kevin Keegan prior to their Premier League match at St James’ Park. Keegan, who passed away this week at 75, held iconic status at both football clubs, serving as a standout player for Liverpool and both a player and manager for Newcastle.
The two sides are scheduled to meet for the 2026-27 season opener on Sunday, 23 August. Newcastle confirmed they are collaborating with Liverpool, the Premier League, and various fan organizations, including the Newcastle United Supporters Trust and Wor Flags, to develop appropriate memorial activities.
During his tenure at Liverpool, Keegan secured three league titles, the European Cup, two Uefa Cups, and an FA Cup. At Newcastle, he arrived as a player in 1982 and returned as manager a decade later, leading the team to promotion and a second-place finish. Newcastle’s men’s, women’s, and under-21 squads will wear black armbands throughout pre-season to pay their respects. Additional tributes include a moment of silence at upcoming friendlies and a scheduled seventh-minute display of his image on stadium screens to reflect his iconic shirt number.
The club is also working with the Keegan family to discuss a lasting memorial. Keegan had been battling stage four cancer after being diagnosed earlier this year, and his family confirmed he passed away surrounded by his wife and daughters.
