The 75-year-old football great, widely regarded as one of the finest players in Liverpool’s history, issued a statement confirming his diagnosis and explaining that he had hoped to keep the matter private.
Dalglish wrote: “As my inadvertent social media post has indicated, I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer.
“Ideally, this would have remained private because that’s the way it should be, but my useless technology skills have forced my hand.
“Obviously I did not mean to make this matter public so I would appreciate it if the privacy of my family and myself are respected.
“As ever, thank you to the wonderful medical staff who have shown incredible care and discretion, not just for me but for many, many others. They are a credit to themselves.”
The emotional statement immediately sparked an outpouring of support from across the football world, with Liverpool FC leading the tributes to one of the club’s most beloved figures.
The club responded: “We are all with you Sir Kenny.
“The support, best wishes and love of everyone at Liverpool FC are, and will be, with Sir Kenny and his family.
“The club would also like to underscore his request for privacy moving forward.”
Among the first family members to respond was Dalglish’s son Paul, who posted a touching message of encouragement, writing: “Love you Dad. You got this.”
Current and former football stars also rallied around the Liverpool legend. German midfielder Florian Wirtz shared prayer and heart emojis in support, while former Liverpool favourite Georginio Wijnaldum also sent his love.
Dalglish’s place in football history is secure. A boyhood Rangers supporter, he rose through the ranks at Celtic before becoming one of Scotland’s greatest-ever players. After winning multiple league titles and domestic cups in Glasgow, he completed a record-breaking £440,000 move to Liverpool in 1977.
Tasked with replacing Kevin Keegan, Dalglish enjoyed a sensational first season at Anfield, scoring 31 goals and helping Liverpool lift the European Cup with a famous winning goal against Club Brugge at Wembley.
His glittering career with the Reds delivered three European Cups, six English league titles and an FA Cup, cementing his status as one of the club’s most iconic figures.
The announcement comes just days after another football legend, Kevin Keegan, publicly discussed his own battle with cancer, highlighting a difficult period for two of the sport’s most respected figures.
For now, Sir Kenny has asked for privacy as he continues treatment, while supporters across Liverpool and the wider football community unite behind a man who has given so much to the game.
