Keane leaves role as Maccabi Tel Aviv manager

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

On the pitch, the Dubliner’s one-year stint was hugely successful, guiding the club to their first league title since 2020. They also claimed the Toto Cup – equivalent of the League Cup – defeating Maccabi Haifa in the final.

They also performed strongly in the Europa Conference League, topping their group, dispatching Gent in the first knockout round before falling short against eventual champions Olympiacos in the round of 16.

Nonetheless, 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”.

This criticism ratcheted up significantly amid the escalation in the conflict since 7 October and ongoing events in Gaza.

Keane told the club’s official website: “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 said of the departure: “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.

“Robbie, the club and fans will always be connected through the challenging and successful 2023/24 campaign.”