Tributes Pour In for Craig Shakespeare Following His Passing

Former Leicester manager Craig Shakespeare has sadly passed away at the age of 60. His family shared that he died peacefully on Thursday morning, surrounded by his loved ones. Shakespeare had been fighting cancer since last year and was undergoing treatment.

Shakespeare became well-known as the assistant coach to Claudio Ranieri during Leicester’s incredible Premier League title win in 2016. He took the reins as first-team coach the following season after Ranieri’s departure, and he even led the team to a stunning victory over Sevilla in the Champions League, helping them reach the quarter-finals.

In a heartfelt statement released through the League Managers’ Association, Shakespeare’s family expressed their pride in his football achievements but emphasized that, to them, he was primarily a caring husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. They requested privacy as they navigate this painful time.

Leicester’s chief executive, Susan Whelan, extended her thoughts to Craig’s family, stating that everyone at the club is sending them support. Martin O’Neill, the chairman of the League Managers’ Association, also paid tribute, highlighting Shakespeare’s impact on players and coaches alike. He noted that Craig’s knowledge of football was profound and that his warm personality made everyone feel valued.

Shakespeare had a series of roles throughout his career, including work at Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, and Norwich, as well as serving as Sam Allardyce’s assistant during a brief time with the England national team. His contributions to Leicester City, especially during that remarkable Premier League season, will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.