Former Leicester City manager Craig Shakespeare has passed away at the age of 60, his family has confirmed.
Shakespeare, who had been undergoing cancer treatment since October 2023, managed Leicester City and also had roles at West Brom, Hull, Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, and Norwich.
He was also an assistant manager for the England national team in 2016.
A statement from his family, issued through the League Managers’ Association, revealed that Shakespeare “passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family.”
It added: “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 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 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.”
Craig Shakespeare, who was Claudio Ranieri’s assistant during Leicester City’s remarkable Premier League title win in the 2015-16 season, passed away at the age of 60. He succeeded Ranieri as Leicester’s manager in February 2017 but was dismissed in October after being appointed permanently in June.
His most recent role was as an assistant to Dean Smith at Leicester, starting in April 2023, but he left following the team’s relegation.
Shakespeare also had a notable playing career as a midfielder, with stints at Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom, Grimsby, Scunthorpe, Telford, and Hednesford.
Former Leicester manager Nigel Pearson, who worked with Shakespeare at five different clubs, expressed deep sorrow over the news, saying it is hard to convey the impact Shakespeare had on those who knew or worked with him.
“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. 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’.”
Shakespeare was England assistant boss for Sam Allardyce’s one game in charge – a 1-0 win in Slovakia in September 2016.
A social media message from the England national team account read: “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 Foxes statement said Shakespeare “leaves a legacy at Leicester City like few others”.
It added: “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.
“Craig was not merely a staff member but a cherished part of the Leicester City family. His warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in people endeared him to all.
“His loss will be felt deeply by the many friends he still has at Leicester City and beyond. Supporters, colleagues, and friends won’t ever forget the immeasurable impact Craig had on the football club and its staff.”
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