Hamburg Joins Others in Mourning Death of English Footballing Legend Kevin Keegan

Hamburg SV has issued a statement expressing sorrow over the passing of the renowned English footballer Kevin Keegan. Shortly after the confirmation of his death on Monday afternoon, Keegan's former Bundesliga club paid tribute to the late "Mighty Mouse." The official statement from Hamburger SV included a poignant quote from Keegan's former teammate at the club, Horst Hrubesch.

Kevin Keegan's Storied Time in Hamburg

Keegan graced the German top flight for three seasons, from 1977 to 1980. Although his arrival in the Bundesliga was met with initial challenges, Keegan soon found his footing, delivering some of the most memorable years of his career for HSV. He was instrumental in leading Hamburg to a Bundesliga championship during the 1978/79 season.

Furthermore, during his three-year stint with the club, he secured two Ballon d'Or awards. To this day, he remains the sole HSV player to have been honored twice as France Football's "European Footballer of the Year."

His inaugural season saw a notable incident where he punched a VfB Lübeck player during the winter break, resulting in an eight-week suspension. In his autobiography, Keegan recounted vowing to use this period to master the German language and win over the respect of his teammates. He ultimately succeeded in both these personal goals and earned the admiration of the local fanbase.

Hamburg's Official Statement on Keegan's Death

"The dynamic forward guided the Rothosen to the German championship in the 1978–79 season and captivated fans with his passionate and spectacular style of play," the statement read. "With his speed, dynamism, exceptional aerial ability, and unwavering commitment, he epitomized the spirit of teamwork like few others."

"For the fans of the Rothosen, he will forever be remembered as one thing above all: a crowd favorite," the statement continued. "He was an exceptional player and one of the greatest footballers to ever wear the diamond on his chest."

Horst Hrubesch's Tribute to Keegan

"Keegy was the type of player every team would still want today," Hrubesch was quoted as saying on the HSV website. "He consistently prioritized the team and, with his attitude, inspired everyone around him."

English Translation:

Hamburg SV has issued a statement mourning the passing of English football legend Kevin Keegan. Not long after the 75-year-old's death was confirmed late Monday afternoon, Keegan’s former Bundesliga club joined the masses mourning the late "Mighty Mouse." The statement on Hamburger SV’s website contained a quote from Keegan’s former HSV teammate Horst Hrubesch.

Kevin Keegan’s Time in Hamburg

Keegan spent three seasons in the German top flight between 1977 and 1980. Despite the fact that his tenure in the Bundesliga got off to a tumultuous start, Keegan eventually settled in and gave HSV some of his best years. Keegan led Hamburg to a Bundesliga title during the 1978/79 campaign.

He also captured two Ballon d’Ors during his three-year-stint. To date, he is still the only HSV player to have twice been selected as France Football’s “European Footballer of the Year” twice.

In his first season, a physical altercation that saw him punch a VfB Lübeck player during winter break earned him an eight-week suspension. In his own autobiography, Keegan wrote that he vowed to use this time to learn the German language and win over the locker room.

He ultimately succeeded in both endeavors and also earned the respect of local fans.

Hamburg Statement on Keegan’s Death

“The lively forward led the Rothosen to the German championship in the 1978–79 season and thrilled fans with his passionate and spectacular style of play,” the statement reads. “With his speed, dynamism, exceptional heading ability, and unconditional dedication, he embodied the spirit of teamwork like few others.

“For the fans of the Rothosen, he will remain one thing above all others: a fan favorite,” the statement continues. “He was an exceptional player and one of the best footballers ever to don the diamond on his chest.”

Horst Hrubsech’s Quote on Keegan

“Keegy was the kind of player every team would still love to have today,” Hrubesch is quoted as saying on the HSV website. “He always put the team first and, with his attitude, fired up everyone around him.”