Robbie Keane steps down as Maccabi Tel Aviv manager

Robbie Keane has left his post as Maccabi Tel Aviv manager following their league-winning season.

The Irish coach guided the club to their first league title since 2020. They also claimed the Toto Cup – the equivalent of the League Cup – defeating Maccabi Haifa in the final.

He also led the club to the knockout stages of the Europa Conference League where they were knocked out by eventual winners Olympiacos.

Keane's decision to take a job in Israel attracted criticism from the start, the player insisting he did not wish to get into politics and was in Tel Aviv "as a football man".

The escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict post October 7 even resulted in football being suspended for over a month, with all foreign staff and players evacuated.

The news of Keane’s departure was confirmed this morning, adding that Keane’s backroom staff including former Ireland international Rory Delap will be leaving with him.

In the immediate wake of his departure, Keane told the Irish Independent: "It has been a tough decision for me to leave Maccabi Tel Aviv FC. I would like to thank the owner, all the players, coaches and the fans for making this an unforgettable season.

"I am very proud of everything we have achieved together as a team and most proud of the hard work and dedication which resulted in winning the championship and Toto Cup.

"Wishing everyone involved at the club all the best for the Champions League and season ahead."

Club owner Mitch Goldhar added: "I wish to thank Robbie and all his staff, Rory Delap, Dave Sarachan, Mike Stowell and Phillip Hudson for their hard work and dedication throughout this season in helping to bring the championship back to Maccabi.

"Robbie and his staff faithfully fulfilled their duties under difficult circumstances for which I am and will always be grateful.”