Robbie Keane is set to leave Maccabi Tel Aviv after guiding the club to the Israeli title Robbie Keane is leaving his job as Maccabi Tel Aviv manager, the Irish Independent can exclusively reveal. The Dubliner has informed the club of his intention to depart after just one season in charge. Canadian owner Mitch Goldhar attempted to persuade Keane to stay, but was unsuccessful in his attempts to do so.
Keane steered Maccabi to a league title in impressive fashion, finishing eleven points clear of second placed Maccabi Haifa, the club they also defeated in a penalty shootout to claim the Israeli version of the League Cup. He also led his club to the knock out stages of the Europa Conference League where they were knocked out by eventual winners Olympiacos. But Keane has come under increased scrutiny for working in Israel given ongoing events in Gaza.
He shrugged off comments about political matters when he was appointed last June, but the escalation post October 7 has placed even more spotlight on his decision. Comments by Ireland’s record goalscorer in the aftermath of league success did raise questions about his longer term intentions. And he has removed references to the club from his Instagram account before giving this statement to the Irish Independent: “It has been a tough decision for me to leave Maccabi Tel Aviv FC.
“I would like to thank all the players, coaches, owners and especially the fans for making this an unforgettable season. “I am very proud of everyt.
