Keegan on Ferguson: 'For Two Days, I Really Hated Him'

In the 1995/96 Premier League title race, Newcastle, managed by Keegan, engaged in a fierce battle with Ferguson's Manchester United. The famous interview in which Keegan said 'I love this' caused tension between the two at one point. Keegan recently recalled: 'For a day or two, I really hated him.'

That season, Newcastle had a 12-point lead over Manchester United in January, but United eventually completed a comeback. Under pressure, Keegan became emotional during a live television interview and delivered the famous 'I love this' remark. The interview became a classic Premier League moment and reflected the psychological battle between the two managers.

"Ferguson crossed the line, and that is the difference between us"

In an interview in 2007, Keegan said: "Ferguson crossed the line, and that is the difference between us — because of that, he won 13 league titles and I won none." The comments reflected both his frustration with his rival and his acknowledgement of reality.

However, time eventually eased the hostility. Keegan said: "I wouldn't say we are close friends now, but we have talked a lot. I sold players to him, he sold players to me; I did charity work for him, and he did the same for me." The two moved from fierce opponents to mutual respect.

After a 5-0 win over Manchester United, Cantona shook hands first

Keegan also recalled a moment from his time managing Newcastle: "After I beat Manchester United 5-0, I shook hands with Ferguson, but only Cantona came over to speak to me. He held my hand and said: 'What a truly great team.'" This detail became one of Keegan's treasured memories.

This long-running rivalry ultimately ended with reconciliation. Keegan's memories offer fans insight into the relationship between two legendary Premier League managers — fierce competition on the pitch, but respect for each other away from it.