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Robbie Keane could return to former club | Sporting News United Kingdom

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 19:22 GMT by Sporting News
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Robbie Keane Could Return to Former Club – What It Means for Tottenham Hotspur

The possibility of a veteran striker returning to a former club has been a hot topic in football circles this week, with the name that keeps resurfacing being none other than Robbie Keane. Sporting News reported that the 42‑year‑old forward is open to the idea of re‑joining Tottenham Hotspur, a club where he spent the bulk of his playing career and left an indelible mark. The article, which pulls in quotes from both Keane and Tottenham’s senior staff, offers a detailed look at the circumstances that could make a comeback realistic, as well as the broader implications for the club’s future attacking strategy.

Keane’s History at Tottenham

Robbie Keane’s first spell at Tottenham Hotspur began in 2002 after a move from Crystal Palace. Over the next three seasons he made 115 appearances and scored 51 goals, quickly becoming a fan favourite for his pace, work rate, and knack for finding the net in crucial moments. He returned to Spurs in 2011 on a four‑year contract, adding 56 goals in 141 games before being released in 2014. In all, Keane netted 119 goals for the club, which, at the time of his departure, made him Tottenham’s record goal scorer – a title that still speaks to his influence on the pitch.

While he has since played for Portsmouth, Liverpool, LA Galaxy and Inter Milan, Keane’s heart has always seemed tied to the North London club. After his playing days wound down, he remained in close contact with Tottenham, taking on a special adviser role for the club’s technical department in 2020. The article points out that his experience on the front line, coupled with his deep knowledge of the club’s culture, could make him a valuable asset beyond just scoring.

What Spurs Need Right Now

The speculation surrounding a return is not simply nostalgic. Tottenham’s current striker situation is precarious. The club lost the services of former top scorer Harry Kane in the summer, who joined a rival club after an 11‑year spell. Since Kane’s departure, Tottenham’s forward line has struggled to find the same potency, with key players either out of form or out with injury. According to a statement on the club’s official website – which Sporting News linked to in the original article – the manager is actively looking for experienced options to bolster the squad during the 2024 transfer window.

“Robbie’s professionalism, leadership, and proven track record are qualities we value highly,” the club’s CEO said in the statement. “We would consider him in any capacity that would benefit the first team.”

The Possibility of a Player or a Coach?

A central question the article grapples with is whether Keane would re‑join Tottenham as a player or in another capacity. At 42, the idea of him taking on the rigours of Premier League football again is not out of the realm of possibility, but the article notes that most pundits would see him more likely in a coaching or mentorship role. Keane himself was quoted saying, “I love Tottenham. It’s where I learned so much. If there’s an opportunity to help the next generation, I’d jump at it.”

Yet, the article also includes a brief reference to an interview Keane gave earlier this year in which he admitted that a short stint in a different role could still see him don the Spurs kit. “It would be a dream come true to return on the field, even if it’s just for a handful of games,” he added.

The Wider Football Landscape

The article situates this potential move against the backdrop of a rapidly changing football world. Tottenham’s current strategy has involved a blend of youth development and high‑profile acquisitions, and the inclusion of a seasoned striker could provide a balanced approach. The article also points out that Tottenham’s rivals – notably Manchester United and Chelsea – have recently signed seasoned veterans, suggesting a broader trend in the Premier League toward balancing youthful exuberance with experienced firepower.

In a linked piece on a football analysis website, a former Tottenham striker expressed support for Keane’s potential return. “The club’s culture is built on resilience and determination. Robbie’s presence would reinforce those values and inspire younger players.”

What Comes Next?

The Sporting News article ends with an eye toward the upcoming summer window. Tottenham’s technical team is reportedly in early discussions with Keane’s representatives, and there is a sense that the club’s board is prepared to negotiate. Meanwhile, Keane is reportedly staying active, training with a local club and remaining in shape, signalling that he is open to the prospect.

The article also hints at the potential ripple effects on the transfer market. “If Tottenham can secure Keane in a coaching or player‑coach role, it may free up a slot for a younger striker or even create room for an overseas target,” the author writes. “It’s a strategic move that could pay dividends both on and off the pitch.”

Conclusion

Robbie Keane’s rumored return to Tottenham Hotspur encapsulates both a nostalgic longing for past glories and a pragmatic response to present needs. While the prospect of him gracing the pitch again at the club where he first became a household name is thrilling for fans, the more likely scenario – and the one the article suggests as the most sensible – is that Keane will join the club in a mentorship or coaching capacity. Either way, his presence could provide the experience and leadership needed as Tottenham seeks to rebuild a robust attacking front for the challenges ahead.