Craig Shakespeare, the 60-year-old former manager of Leicester, has received tributes.
Shakespeare, who was given a cancer diagnosis last year, was a coach for many years. He was most famous for serving as Claudio Ranieri’s assistant when Leicester surprised everyone by winning the Premier League in 2015–2016.
BShakespeare took over as manager after the Italian was fired the next season, however he left the position after less than a season. Following a playing career with Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom, Grimsby, and Scunthorpe, he managed at Hull, Watford, Aston Villa, Norwich, and Everton. He also served as Sam Allardyce’s assistant during his brief stint as England manager.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Craig Shakespeare, ‘Shakey’,” said his family in a statement released by the League Managers’ Association (LMA).
“Craig passed away peacefully this morning at home surrounded by his family. While we are immensely proud of his footballing achievements as both a player and a coach, to us, his family, he will always primarily be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother and uncle.
“The loss is devastating to us all and we would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly difficult time as we try to come to terms with, and mourn, the loss of a very special person.”
“We would like to thank and acknowledge the many prayers and good wishes sent during the past few difficult months, many of which we were unable to respond to, but all meant a lot to Craig and the family.”
Shakespeare was referred to as “an inspirational figure in our history” by Leicester City in a post on X. Before taking over as manager and guiding us to the Champions League quarterfinals, Craig played a key role in our ascent from League 1 to Premier League champions.
Shakey, rest in peace. Shakespeare was honored by LMA chairman Martin O’Neill, who oversaw Leicester from 1995 to 2000. “Players, coaches, and managers in the game often spoke about Craig’s impact on the people he worked with,” he added. In addition to his extensive coaching and football expertise, Craig’s warmth and engaging demeanor gave everyone a sense of importance and genuine concern for their growth and well-being.
“The role he played in the success of his teams should be celebrated, especially at Leicester City, who rightfully see Craig as a club stalwart who played a significant part of that unbelievable Premier League winning season and many other wonderful times throughout his three spells at the club.”
Jamie Vardy, who played under Shakespeare at Leicester, tweeted: “I don’t have the words right now. Just gutted. RIP Shakey.”
Jack Grealish, who worked with Shakespeare at Aston Villa, called him “one of the greatest people I’ve ever met not only in football but in life. Last month [he] was texting me when I didn’t make the Euros squad while he was ill – shows the type of man he was! An absolute heart of gold! Absolutely devastated.”
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