Robbie Keane has spoken publicly for the first time since leaving Ferencvaros.
The Ireland legend, widely spoken about in the media as a possible successor to Martin O’Neill, resigned from his post at the Budapest club on Friday.
He did so after Ferencvaros missed out on the title after a seven-year streak in his first full season in Hungary.
With the rumour mill in full flow, Keane has released a statement.
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Robbie Keane: ‘Difficult decision’ to leave Ferencvaros
Keane wrote on his Instagram: “After an incredibly enjoyable and successful 16 months at Ferencvaros, I have made the difficult decision to bring my time at the football club to an end.
“From the beginning, the President, the Board, the staff, and the players made me feel welcome and were a pleasure to work with.
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“Together, we formed a fantastic partnership that delivered great success for the club, and I am incredibly proud of what we achieved.
“The supporters at Ferencvaros are among the most passionate in Europe, and the backing they have given me from the moment I arrived is something I will always remember and cherish.
“Winning the League in my first season, followed by lifting the Magyar Kupa last week, are moments I will always be immensely proud of.
“I will also never forget those unforgettable nights during our unbeaten run in the Europa League. These are achievements that will stay with me for the rest of my career.
After a great deal of thought and reflection, I believe now is the right time for me to move on. It is not a decision I have taken lightly.
“Ferencvaros is a special football club and I have no doubt it will continue to enjoy success in the years ahead.
“Thank you all for your incredible support and the unforgettable moments we shared together. I wish the club and everyone connected to it nothing but the very best for the future.
The links are back again… Would you welcome Robbie Keane as Celtic manager?
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Robbie Keane to Celtic: yes or no?
Keane is certainly remembered fondly for his excellent form when brought to the club on loan from the second half of the 2009-10 season, a disappointing campaign for the club as a whole.
His spell managing in Israel is troubling for parts of the Parkhead support, but it clearly isn’t dissuading the club from considering him as a candidate.
His full managerial record is available here…
| Club | Tenure | Matches | Won | Drawn | Lost | Win % | Honours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maccabi Tel Aviv | July 2023 – June 2024 | 53 | 38 | 7 | 8 | 71.7% | Israeli Premier League (23/24), Toto Cup |
| Ferencváros | Jan 2025 – May 2025 | 74 | 47 | 13 | 14 | 63.5% | NB I League (24/25) |
| TOTAL | 127 | 85 | 20 | 22 | 66.9% |
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