Tributes are pouring in for Craig Shakespeare, the former Leicester City manager who has died at the age of 60 after a battle with cancer.
In a statement released by the League Managers’ Association (LMA), Shakespeare’s family said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Craig Shakespeare, ‘Shakey’. Craig passed away peacefully this morning at home surrounded by his family.”
The family continued: “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.”
The family also expressed gratitude for the support they received during Shakespeare’s illness: “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 held various coaching roles throughout his career, most notably as assistant to Claudio Ranieri during Leicester’s historic Premier League title win in 2015-2016. He later replaced Ranieri as manager but had a brief tenure.
Shakespeare’s coaching career spanned multiple clubs, including Hull, Watford, Aston Villa, Norwich, and Everton. He also served as assistant to Sam Allardyce during his short stint as England manager.
Before transitioning to coaching, Shakespeare had a playing career with Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom, Grimsby, and Scunthorpe.
The football community is mourning the loss of a respected figure, with tributes highlighting Shakespeare’s dedication, expertise, and contributions to the sport.
