Major Controversies Surrounding Roy Keane: A Detailed Timeline

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Roy Keane.

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.

1995: Red card incident against Gareth Southgate

In 1995, Roy Keane received a red card after stamping on Gareth Southgate during an FA Cup semi-final.

1999: Criticism of Teammates' Focus on Wealth

After a defeat, Roy Keane blamed United's loss of form on his teammates' fixation with wealth in 1999, stating that they had forgotten the game, losing the hunger that earned them material possessions.

November 2000: Criticism of Manchester United Supporters

In November 2000, Roy Keane criticized sections of Manchester United supporters after a Champions League victory over Dynamo Kyiv, complaining about their lack of vocal support and suggesting some fans were more interested in "prawn sandwiches" than the game itself, sparking a debate about the changing atmosphere in football grounds.

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.

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.

2002: Saipan incident during FIFA World Cup

In 2002, Triggs came to international attention during the Saipan incident ahead of the FIFA World Cup, which saw Roy Keane leave the squad.

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.

2005: Rivalry with Patrick Vieira at Highbury

In 2005, Roy Keane had a notable incident with Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira at Highbury. This confrontation was fueled by a period of intense rivalry between Manchester United and Arsenal.

March 2007: Criticism of FAI attitude and selection policy

In March 2007, Roy Keane criticized the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) for biased player selection based on media exposure and Dublin origins, alleging that Sunderland player Liam Miller was overlooked due to being from Cork. He also accused the FAI of incompetence.

September 2008: Controversy with FIFA Vice-President Jack Warner

In September 2008, Roy Keane became embroiled in a row with FIFA Vice-President Jack Warner over the withdrawal of Dwight Yorke from the Trinidad and Tobago national team, with Keane calling Warner "a clown."

November 2009: Criticism of Irish reaction to Thierry Henry handball incident

In November 2009, Roy Keane criticized the Irish reaction to Thierry Henry's handball incident during the 2010 World Cup qualifier, also criticizing the Irish team's defence and the FAI authorities.

2010: 2010 World Cup play-off controversy

In November 2009, in the wake of Ireland's defeat by France in the qualification 2010 World Cup play-off, Roy Keane was critical of the Irish reaction to the Thierry Henry handball incident.

October 2014: Controversy over book release

In October 2014, Roy Keane's book release caused controversy before crucial Euro 2016 qualifiers, though Martin O'Neill dismissed concerns it was a distraction.

September 2019: Interview with Off the Ball

In September 2019, Roy Keane stated in an interview with Off the Ball that Manchester United were pushing him out of the club due to his age and strained relationships with Carlos Queiroz and Sir Alex Ferguson.

September 2023: Alleged headbutting incident at Emirates Stadium

In September 2023, Roy Keane was allegedly headbutted by a man at Emirates Stadium while working as a pundit for Sky Sports.

June 2024: Guilty verdict and sentence for headbutting incident

In June 2024, the man who allegedly headbutted Roy Keane was found guilty, given a three-year football banning order, ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work, and pay legal costs plus a victim surcharge.