James Maddison in awkward exchange with Roy Keane after Tottenham's final win over Manchester United

Evening Standard

·21 May 2025

James Maddison in awkward exchange with Roy Keane after Tottenham's final win over Manchester United

Keane was critical of Maddison earlier this season and the Spurs star responded in February with a ‘shush’ celebration

Roy Keane and James Maddison enjoyed a back-and-forth after Tottenham’s Europa League final victory.

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Maddison missed out on the final due to injury but watched from the stands as Brennan Johnson scored the only goal in a 1-0 win over Manchester United in Bilbao.

It ended Spurs’ 41-year wait for a European trophy and secured their place in the Champions League next season, saving what has otherwise been a miserable campaign.

Keane criticised Maddison earlier in the season and the Spurs midfielder responded by putting his finger to his lips when scoring in his side’s win over United back in February.

Maddison made it clear he remembered that exchange as he gave an interview with CBS Sports on the pitch, having first explained why he was in a full Spurs kit despite not playing.

The 28-year-old said he had been told he had to wear that to receive a medal, before swiftly turning his focus to the former United captain.

“I wasn’t going to do any interviews but then I heard it was with Roy Keane,” Maddison laughed.

Keane responded: “I’ve always said he was a good player.

“I’ve always said he was a good player, but he needs to be more consistent. Simple as that. And he played well tonight.”

That was a dig at Maddison not being involved in the final, which the Spurs star hit back at by referencing his goalscoring display in the last-four win over Bodo/Glimt.

“Reason why we were here tonight,” Maddison said.

Keane replied: “Don’t worry, I know you played your part. Well done, don’t worry.”