In a significant development, Hungarian champions Ferencvaros have appointed Robbie Keane, the legendary Tottenham Hotspur striker, as their new head coach. Keane, renowned for his stellar 19-year playing career, takes over from Dutchman Pascal Jansen, who is poised to join MLS side New York City FC.

Keane arrived in Budapest on Sunday and signed his contract on Monday before heading to Spain for the team’s training camp. Assisting him in this new journey are Rory Delap and match analyst Phill Hudson.

A Storied Playing Career

Robbie Keane’s name resonates with football fans worldwide. The former Republic of Ireland captain scored 68 international goals, earning him a spot among football’s elite. During his illustrious career, he played for clubs like Wolves, Inter Milan, Leeds, Tottenham, Liverpool, and LA Galaxy, to name a few.

Keane was a key figure in Ireland’s squads at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 and 2016 UEFA European Championships. Interestingly, he faced the Nigerian Super Eagles three times in his career, experiencing both triumphs and setbacks.

His encounters included a 2-1 loss to Nigeria in a pre-2002 World Cup friendly, a 3-0 defeat in 2004, and a memorable goal during a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage in 2009—his final faceoff against the African giants.

Coaching a Rising Nigerian Star

At Ferencvaros, Keane will work with Tosin Kehinde, the Nigerian midfielder who has been a bright spark for the club. Kehinde, a former Manchester United youth player, contributed two goals and four assists under Jansen last season.

Keane’s appointment is expected to inject fresh energy into Ferencvaros, Hungary’s most successful club with 35 league titles and 24 domestic cups.