Former Leicester City manager Craig Shakespeare has died at the age of 60, as announced by his family. Shakespeare had been undergoing treatment for cancer since October 2023.
In addition to his managerial role at Leicester, Shakespeare worked with several clubs, including West Brom, Hull, Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, and Norwich. He also served as an assistant coach for the England national team in 2016.
A statement from his family, released through the League Managers’ Association, revealed that Shakespeare “passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family.” The statement emphasized that, while the family is proud of his football achievements as a player and coach, he will primarily be remembered as a loving husband, father, son, brother, and uncle.
“The loss is devastating to us all,” the statement continued, requesting privacy during this difficult time of mourning. The family expressed gratitude for the many prayers and well-wishes received over the past months, noting that they meant a lot to Craig and his loved ones.
Shakespeare was an integral part of Leicester’s historic Premier League title win in the 2015-16 season as Claudio Ranieri’s assistant. He took over as manager in February 2017 and was appointed permanently in June, but was dismissed later that October.
Most recently, Shakespeare returned to Leicester as an assistant under Dean Smith in April 2023 before leaving following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.
During his playing career, Shakespeare played as a midfielder for Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom, Grimsby, Scunthorpe, Telford, and Hednesford.
Colleague Nigel Pearson, who worked alongside Shakespeare at five different clubs, shared, “It’s difficult to put into words how I, and indeed everyone who came across or worked with Craig, will feel on hearing such devastating news. He is one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced, and outrageously funny people I’ve had the privilege of calling my friend.”
Shakespeare also served as one of Sam Allardyce’s assistants during a single game in charge for the England national team—a 1-0 victory over Slovakia in September 2016.
The England national team mourned his loss, stating, “We are devastated to learn that former Three Lions coach Craig Shakespeare has passed away at the age of 60. All of our thoughts are with Craig’s family and friends at this time.”
Leicester City released a statement honoring Shakespeare’s legacy, saying he “leaves a legacy at Leicester City like few others.” The club expressed gratitude for the special connection shared with a man whose passion and spirit will continue to resonate with those who knew him.
“Craig was not merely a staff member but a cherished part of the Leicester City family,” the statement concluded, highlighting his warmth, kindness, and impact on the club and its supporters. His memory will be deeply felt by friends, colleagues, and fans alike.
Credit: BBC Sport
