The former Leicester City manager, Craig Shakespeare, has died at the age of 60.
His family announced the news, stating that Shakespeare “passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family.”
He had been receiving treatment for cancer since October 2023.
Shakespeare was well-known for his time at Leicester City. He was Claudio Ranieri’s assistant when Leicester won the Premier League in 2015-16. He became the manager in February 2017 but was dismissed in October of the same year. Most recently, Shakespeare worked as an assistant manager at Leicester City in April 2023 before leaving after the team was relegated from the Premier League.
Shakespeare also had roles with West Brom, Hull, Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, and Norwich. He was briefly an assistant coach for England in 2016.
His family released a statement saying, “While the family 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 statement added, “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.”
Leicester fans and former colleagues have paid tribute to Shakespeare. Former Leicester boss Nigel Pearson described Shakespeare as “one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced, and outrageously funny people I’ve had the privilege of calling my friend.”
Pearson added, “Safe journey to the next destination my wonderful friend. You are loved and admired by us all, and every time we think of you, a smile, smirk, chuckle, or memorable occasion will come to us.”
The England national team also expressed their sadness, saying, “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.”
A statement from Leicester City said Shakespeare “leaves a legacy at Leicester City like few others.” It continued, “Though we mourn his loss, we are grateful to have shared such a special connection with a man whose passion and spirit will long resonate with all who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
