The 74-year-old was recently admitted to hospital after presenting abdominal symptoms, and tests have shown he has the disease for which he is now undergoing treatment.
A statement from Keegan’s family, shared by Newcastle United, said: “Kevin Keegan was recently admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms.
“These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment.
“Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care. During this difficult time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment.”
Keegan started his career at Scunthorpe before being signed for Liverpool by Bill Shankly in 1971, going on to win the First Division title three times as well as the FA Cup, the UEFA Cup twice and the 1977 European Cup.
Twice named European Footballer of the Year while at German club Hamburg, he later returned to England to play for Southampton and Newcastle before retiring in 1984.
He earned 63 England caps, scoring 21 goals and captaining the national side, including an appearance at the 1982 World Cup.
In management, Keegan became a beloved figure at Newcastle, guiding them into the Premier League and thrilling fans during the mid-90s title race.
Later spells followed with Fulham, England, Manchester City, and a brief return to Newcastle in 2008.
Beyond his managerial career, he continued to give back to football through grassroots work.
His Soccer Circus attraction at Braehead’s Xscape became a major hit, combining interactive training games with youth programmes run alongside Glasgow City Council.
The initiative, which started in 200,6 attracted both locals and professionals, with Scottish clubs using the facility and well-known figures like Ally McCoist and Davie Weir bringing their children to join in.
