ROBBIE KEANE has quit as manager of Israeli giants Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Keane, 43, led Maccabi to the Israeli title and Toto Cup – their version of the league cup – in what was his first ever permanent managerial post.
But while there was an option to extend his contract, he requested that the club do not renew it so he could depart Israel and explore new options.
Keane said: “The decision to leave the Maccabi Tel Aviv football club was difficult for me.
“I want to thank the owners, all the players, the coaches, and the fans for making this season unforgettable.
“I am very proud of everything we achieved together as a team and especially proud of the hard work and the dedication that led to winning the championship and the Toto Cup.
“I wish everyone involved in the club the best of luck in the Champions League and the upcoming season.”
Club owner Mitch Goldhar said: “I would like to thank Robbie and his team, Rory Delap, Dave Sarakan, Mike Stawell, and Phillip Hudson for their hard work and dedication during this season and for bringing the championship back to Maccabi.
“Robbie and his team did their duty faithfully under difficult circumstances and I will always be grateful. Robbie, the club and the fans will always be connected to the challenges and success of the 2023/24 season.”
Keane took what was viewed as the toughest managerial post in Israel last June – the club had six managers in their three previous seasons and the biggest budget in the league.
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But he proved successful leading the club to a first league crown in four years and the last 16 of the Europa Conference League, where they lost 7-5 on aggregate to eventual winners Olympiacos despite having a 4-1 lead from the first leg.
Keane took the post and immediately shut down any questions about politics declaring himself a “football person”.
But there has been greater criticism of his decision to remain in Israel as the conflict in Gaza has continued.
It is understood that the FAI has not contacted him at any point to discuss the vacant Ireland post.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
