Claudine Keane, wife of Ireland’s record goal scorer Robbie Keane, has responded to the criticism her husband has faced for managing in Israel, claiming it has jeopardised their family's safety and well-being.
Robbie Keane, Ireland's most-capped player and all-time top scorer, managed Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv last year, drawing criticism for staying with the team amid the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.
This week, Keane met the current Ireland squad before their match against Finland in Dublin, presenting caps to players at the team hotel on Monday night. His appearance sparked backlash from social media users, with one commenter stating, “Him? That’s who you picked? So out of touch with your own fanbase,” while another added, “They could've gotten Declan Rice, Jack Grealish, and Thierry Henry to present these awards... and it still wouldn't be as bad as this little c***.”
Frustrated by the abuse her husband and family have been subjected to, Claudine issued a response on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the impact these comments have had on their safety and accusing critics of using her husband as a “political pawn.”
"I would just like to remind a certain small group of individuals that my family, my children and I live in Ireland; this is our home," said Keane via X.
I would just like to remind a certain small group of individuals my family, my children and I live Ireland, this is our home. I feel extremely uncomfortable and sometimes intimidated by some messages again from a small group that are hurtful, threatening and dangerous. They not
— Claudine Keane (@ClaudineKeane1) November 13, 2024
"I feel extremely uncomfortable and sometimes intimidated by some messages again from a small group that are hurtful, threatening and dangerous.
"They not only genuinely put our safety and wellbeing as a family at risk, they are using a sportsperson as a political pawn and in doing so inciting hatred by making absolutely outrageous accusations.
Claudine went on to express that she no longer felt safe in Ireland and called out the misuse of her family’s situation.
"I always felt safe in Ireland until now. I always wanted to move home, bring my kids up here and enjoy the Ireland that both me and my husband love, "she added.
"They are taking every bit of enjoyment and safety away from me and my family.
"We love our country; we are not politicians; we have never done any wrong.
"My husband spent the majority of his adult life committed to the Ireland team, total and utter commitment."
