Roy Keane could make his final World Cup appearance as a pundit for ITV this weekend, as the former Manchester United captain has hinted at retiring from television work and moving abroad. The 54-year-old, who has been a regular face on ITV and Sky Sports since retiring from playing, previously stated in 2024 that he planned to leave the UK within a couple of years.
Keane's Punditry Career
Keane spent much of his playing career at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning seven Premier League titles. After hanging up his boots in 2006, he moved into management with Sunderland and Ipswich Town before transitioning to punditry. He now works for ITV and Sky Sports, and is a regular on The Overlap alongside Jill Scott, Ian Wright, Jamie Carragher, and Gary Neville.
Retirement Plans
During a 2024 episode of The Overlap, Keane revealed his intention to leave the UK. He said: "In the next couple of years, I reckon I will be moving abroad... putting it out there." When asked where he might go, he added: "Do you know what, Switzerland, maybe? Switzerland is beautiful."
On the Stick to Football podcast, Keane elaborated on his desire to step away from punditry. He explained: "I love football, but the hassle of matches, getting to games, and the hassle of fans – I was in court a few months ago with somebody head-butting me – do you think I enjoy that side of it? Absolutely not." He added: "The games are fine. Getting to the games, parking up, people shouting your name – good stuff, bad stuff – it's a nuisance. Being a pundit in 10 years, not."
World Cup Context
Keane joked earlier this summer that he would emigrate to Australia if England won the World Cup. Speaking on the Sky Bet World Cup mini-series, he said: "I don't want England winning it!" He added: "But obviously when we're working over there, and you're ITV, you want (them to do well). And you know they're gonna get through the knockout games, and when they're getting through, there's a bit of excitement. And that's when I start to get worried, when it's semis and finals. 'Please, stop now! Get them out now!'" When asked by Micah Richards what he would do if England won, Keane replied: "No, I'd be emigrating to Australia."
England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the semi-finals and will face France for third place. With Keane's self-imposed deadline of end of 2026 approaching, this weekend could mark his final World Cup assignment for ITV.
