Craig Shakespeare, the former manager of Leicester City, passed away at the age of sixty, according to his family.
Shakespeare was Claudio Ranieri’s assistant when Leicester won the Premier League against 5000-1 odds. Shakespeare has previously worked with West Brom, Hull, Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, and Norwich.
When Ranieri was fired in February 2017 at the King Power Stadium, he took over for the Italian, although he was fired later that year as well.
Shakespeare, who also served as England’s assistant manager in 2016, died “peacefully at home surrounded by his family,” according to a statement issued by the League Managers’ Association on behalf of his family.
“To us, his family, he will always be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother, and uncle, even though the family is incredibly proud of his footballing accomplishments as both a player and a coach,” it read.
We would like to request privacy at this extremely trying time as we attempt to process and grieve the loss of a very unique individual. The loss is terrible to all of us.
The family would like to express their gratitude and recognize the abundance of prayers and well wishes that were received throughout the last few trying months. Although we were unable to reply to many of them, they were all very meaningful to Craig and the family.
Shakespeare said he was undergoing treatment for cancer back in October 2023. Leicester fans paid tribute to their former manager after the diagnosis.
Ex-Leicester boss Nigel Pearson, who worked with Shakespeare at five different clubs, said: ‘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 without hesitation one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced and outrageously funny people I’ve had the privilege of calling my friend.
Everton Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former coach Craig Shakespeare.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this extremely difficult time. pic.twitter.com/J1msxOHOOl
— Everton (@Everton) August 1, 2024
‘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.
‘We truly are the lucky ones for having known Shakey.’
Everton said in a statement: ‘We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former coach Craig Shakespeare.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.’
Norwich, meanwhile, said: ‘All at Norwich City are saddened to learn of the passing of Craig Shakespeare.
‘Craig is fondly remembered at Carrow Road and his loss will be felt by the entire footballing community. Our heartfelt wishes go to Craig’s friends and family at this sad time.’