Roy Keane has been back in the news following a confrontation with an Arsenal fan at the weekend – but his life is much more calm and serene away from football

Man United icon Roy Keane is a lot more than just a pundit these days

Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane – known for his no-nonsense approach on the pitch and as a leading pundit – is in the headlines after a confrontation with a member of the public at the weekend.

Keane and fellow Sky Sports commenter Micah Richards were involved in a spat with an individual at Arsenal’s Premier League match against United on Sunday. An investigation is now underway after the football fan allegedly aimed a headbutt at Keane.

From his infamous tackles to heated confrontations, Keane’s on-field persona has often overshadowed his personal life. However, away from the drama of the stadium, there is a much softer side to the former United captain. Let’s take a closer look at the man behind the tough exterior. . .

Keane’s happy marriage

Keane’s love story began in 1992 when he first laid eyes on Theresa Doyle, who would later become his wife. However, it wasn’t love at first sight for Theresa.

Researchers claim to have captured the ‘first ever video’ of The Loch Ness Monster

In an interview with the Mirror, Keane recalled how she initially ignored his advances. It took some time for Theresa to warm to him, but eventually, they went on their first date.

Unfortunately, it didn’t go as planned, with a lovers’ tiff resulting in Theresa slamming a car door in Keane’s face. Despite this rocky start, their relationship blossomed, and they tied the knot in 1997.

Describing Theresa as his “rock,” Keane credits her for being a stabilising force in his life. In a Sunday Times interview, Keane said: “I don’t really mention her in public, but in fairness to her, she has been a rock in my life.

Keane and wife Theresa got hitched in 1997

Family man

Family is a significant part of Keane’s life. He and Theresa have five children together – Shannon, Caragh, Aidan, Leah and Alanna.

During his playing days in the Premier League, Keane would often bring his children onto the pitch with him. Winning the 1999 Champions League was a moment that made him long to be with his family rather than celebrate with teammates.

In his autobiography, the ex-Republic of Ireland international wrote: “My plan when I first stopped (playing) was, we’re going to go on some family trips, we’re going to be like the Waltons.

Keane holding son Aidan alongside one of his four daughters

“We’re all going to spend time together, go walk in the park, and after a month or two they didn’t have the same plan as me so I think they were kind of missing me going to work.

“I got offered the job at Sunderland and I was away on a family holiday and my family were looking at me. . . Not saying it directly but going we kind of enjoy your company but not too much of it so when the job came back up they were saying you should go for it.”

In addition to their children, Keane and Theresa are proud grandparents. Keane has shared adorable pictures of his grandchildren on social media but despite briefly joining Instagram in 2021, Keane has since deleted his account, opting for a more private existence.

Other passions

The former Republic of Ireland talisman is a huge dog lover (Image: John Allen)

Outside of football, Keane’s passions include spending time with his family and dogs. He cherishes moments of privacy with them.

Speaking on the Overlap, he said: “Family, dogs – that’s it.” He added: “When you say passion, I love watching other sports. I’ve been to the last couple of Super Bowls. I wouldn’t go out on a Saturday night but I’d go into maybe Altrincham at 6 o’clock for tea, just for a bit of privacy.”

After tearing up turf during his playing career, Keane is more focused on tending to shrubs today

Gardening is another hobby that Keane enjoys. In a now-deleted Instagram post, Keane could be seen tending to plants in the spacious surrounds of his Cheshire mansion.

Keane owns properties in Ireland and Cheshire. In 2010, he put his Hale home on the market for £9.5million before moving into a 9,500 square foot mansion. He previously shared glimpses of his pool and stunning gardens on social media.