Challenges in the Life of Roy Keane in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Roy Keane. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Roy Keane is a celebrated Irish football pundit, former coach, and player, renowned for his impactful career in the Premier League, most notably as captain of Manchester United. He is among the most decorated Irish footballers, securing 19 major trophies, with 17 earned during his time at Manchester United. Keane is widely considered one of history's best defensive midfielders and Premier League players, recognized by Pelé in the FIFA 100 list.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1991: First Call-Up to Under-21s Match

In 1991, Roy Keane was called up for his first game at the international level, an under-21s match against Turkey. He disliked the organization and preparation surrounding the Irish team and had numerous confrontations with the Irish management.

1997: Takes Over as Club Captain

In 1997, Roy Keane took over as club captain of Manchester United after Eric Cantona's retirement, though he missed most of the 1997-98 season due to injury.

1998: Missed Matches Due to Knee Injury

Roy Keane missed crucial matches during the 1998 World Cup qualification due to a severe knee injury.

2000: Lost to Turkey in Euro 2000 Play-Off

Roy Keane captained the team to within reach of qualification for UEFA Euro 2000 but lost to Turkey in a play-off.

2001: Sent Off for Foul on Alfie Haaland

During the 2001 Manchester derby, Roy Keane was sent off for a knee-high foul on Alfie Haaland, which many viewed as an act of revenge. This resulted in a three-match suspension and a fine from The Football Association.

2001: Trophyless Season for Manchester United

Manchester United finished the 2001 season trophyless for the first time in four years, getting eliminated from the FA Cup and finishing third in the Premier League. They reached the semi-finals of the Champions League but were knocked out by Bayer Leverkusen.

August 2002: Fine and Suspension for Elbowing Jason McAteer

In August 2002, Roy Keane was fined £150,000 and suspended for three matches by Sir Alex Ferguson for elbowing Sunderland's Jason McAteer, and he received an added five-match suspension for controversial comments about Alfie Haaland. He underwent hip surgery during the break.

August 2002: Autobiography Release and Further Punishment

In August 2002, after the release of his autobiography, Roy Keane faced further punishment for admitting he intended "to hurt" Alfie Haaland during the 2001 Manchester derby incident. This resulted in additional sanctions from The Football Association.

2002: Sent Home from 2002 FIFA World Cup

In 2002, Roy Keane was sent home from the FIFA World Cup after a dispute with coach Mick McCarthy.

November 2005: Departure from Manchester United

In November 2005, Roy Keane unexpectedly left Manchester United by mutual consent following an injury and increasing tensions with the management and players after arguing with Ferguson over training camp conditions. He also suggested he might play elsewhere after his contract expired.

January 2006: Celtic Debut

In January 2006, Roy Keane made his debut for Celtic in a 2–1 defeat to Clyde in the Scottish Cup. He criticized some of his new teammates during the match.

March 2007: Manager of the Month Award

In March 2007, Roy Keane was rewarded with the Manager of the Month award. Also in March 2007, Roy Keane tackled his players' non-professional approach with a firm hand, leaving three players behind when they were late for the team coach on a trip to Barnsley.

February 2009: Resignation as Sunderland Manager

In February 2009, Roy Keane cited differences with Sunderland's shareholder Ellis Short and strains with chairman Niall Quinn as the factors in his decision to resign as Sunderland manager.