Ex- Manchester United skipper Roy Keane is seen presenting for ITV with presenter Mark Pougatch during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on May 25, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)
Former Ireland captain Roy Keane has stated that he doesn't plan to stay in punditry forever. Keane has become one of the household names in UK sports punditry and often shares his insights on channels like ITV and Sky Sports.
Keane's straightforward approach, which made him a fan favourite on the pitch, has continued to be his style in broadcast studios.
This week, the Cork native was asked about his plans for the future.
"Hopefully, I’ll be out of this rat race in about 12 months," Keane said. "A nice house somewhere, a bit of land, a few animals."
Earlier this year, Keane was in court regarding an incident that occurred after Arsenal beat Manchester United 3-1 at the Emirates last September, thanks to two stoppage-time goals. As Keane made his way back to Sky's studio after the match, he clashed with a fan. Arsenal season ticket holder Scott Law, 43, was found guilty of common assault and given a three-year football ban order for head-butting Keane.
Former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher asked Keane if he would still be a pundit in 10 years. In the most Roy Keane way possible, he responded as expected. Keane also admitted that the headbutt he received from an Arsenal fan had affected his love for the game.
"Absolutely f**king not," Keane replied. "Jesus Christ, are you joking? I’ll struggle for the next 10 months doing this, not 10 years. No chance.
"I love football, but the hassle of matches, getting to games, and dealing with fans—I was in court a few months ago because somebody headbutted me—do you think I enjoy that side of it? Absolutely not.
"The game’s fine, but getting to the game, parking, people shouting your name—good stuff, bad stuff—it’s a nuisance, isn’t it?
"Listen, the podcast is different; I’m talking about going to matches. So being a pundit in 10 years? Absolutely not; I guarantee you that."
