The football world mourns the devastating news of the death of former Leicester City manager Craig Shakespeare at the age of 60. His family confirmed that he died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. This tragic loss has left a significant void in the hearts of many who knew him and admired his contributions to football.
Craig Shakespeare: A Heartfelt Loss for Football
Shakespeare’s Career in Football
Shakespeare’s passing marks the end of a remarkable football career. Known for tactical leadership, his journey in football began as a player before transitioning into coaching and management. His playing career saw him feature for clubs like Walsall, West Bromwich Albion, and Grimsby Town, where he was known for his tenacity and skill on the field.
Read More: Conor Gallagher vs Kiernan Dewsbury Hall
After hanging up his boots in the late nineties, Shakespeare’s passion for the game led him to coaching. He started his coaching career at West Brom, where he worked with the youth teams and later became an assistant manager. His ability to connect with players and his deep understanding of the game quickly earned him respect in the coaching community.
The Leicester City Era
Shakespeare’s most notable tenure was with Leicester City. Initially joining the club as an assistant manager under Nigel Pearson, he played a crucial role in Leicester’s historic 2015-2016 Premier League title win, providing tactical insights and fostering a strong team spirit.
In February 2017, he was appointed as Leicester City’s caretaker manager following Ranieri’s departure. His impact was immediate, leading the team to a series of impressive victories and securing their Premier League status. His success as a caretaker manager earned him a permanent role, and he continued to guide the team with dedication and passion.
Read More: Five Takeaways from Chelsea’s Dominant Win Over Club America
Shakespeare’s death is a profound loss, not just for Leicester City but for the entire football community. His leadership, humility, and unwavering commitment to the sport have left an indelible mark.
Tributes to Shakespeare
Following the news of his death, tributes have poured in from across the football world. Former players, colleagues, and fans have expressed their condolences and shared memories of the impact that he had on their lives. Manchester City forward Jack Grealish shared his condolences on Instagram describing Shakespeare as an ‘Absolute Heart of Gold’ after the coach messaged the Englishman after he was left out of the Euro 2024 squad. Leicester City released a statement honouring Shakespeare’s contributions to the club and expressing their deep sorrow at his passing.
