The football community was struck with grief on Thursday, August 1, 2024, when Craig Shakespeare's family announced his passing at the age of 60. Diagnosed with cancer in October 2023, Shakespeare passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. As details emerged, it became clear that the void left by his departure would be deeply felt by many who knew him both professionally and personally.
Craig Shakespeare etched his name into the annals of football history through his significant contributions to Leicester City, especially during the unforgettable 2015-2016 season. Under the management of Claudio Ranieri, Shakespeare served as the assistant manager of a team that defied all odds to lift the Premier League trophy. His tactical acumen and relationship with the players were key elements behind the club's success story, one that would be retold for generations.
Shakespeare's journey with Leicester City began much earlier though. He joined the club in 2008 as a member of the coaching staff and played various roles, including a stint as the caretaker manager. His intimate knowledge of the club and his rapport with the squad made him an irreplaceable asset. The 2015-2016 fairytale wasn't just a victory for the club but also a testament to Shakespeare's dedication and expertise.
In the early months of 2017, following the club's decision to part ways with Claudio Ranieri, Shakespeare stepped into the role of Leicester City's manager. The move was seen as a natural progression, given his deep understanding of the team. Initially, he had a positive impact, securing several important victories and steadying the ship. His appointment was made permanent later that year.
However, the honeymoon period did not last. The following season started on a challenging note, and after a series of lackluster performances, Shakespeare was relieved of his duties in October 2017. Despite this setback, his commitment to the sport never wavered.
Shakespeare's career took him to various clubs, where he continued to impart his knowledge and experience. He served as an assistant manager at Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, and Norwich City, always bringing his trademark dedication and expertise to each role. Colleagues and players alike have often praised his ability to motivate and connect with the team, highlighting his influence both on and off the pitch.
In April 2023, Shakespeare returned to Leicester City as the assistant head coach under Dean Smith. However, the reunion was short-lived, as the club faced relegation from the Premier League, and his contract was not renewed. Despite these setbacks, Shakespeare remained a respected figure in football circles.
Craig Shakespeare's talents were not confined to club football. In 2016, he briefly held a coaching position with the English national team, reflecting the high regard in which he was held within the broader football community. His time with the national team, though brief, was yet another testament to his versatility and commitment to the sport.
The League Managers' Association (LMA) released a statement on behalf of Shakespeare's family, expressing profound sadness and requesting privacy during this difficult time. The outpouring of tributes from across the football world underscored the impact he had on the lives of many. From former players to fellow coaches, many have spoken of Shakespeare's kindness, wisdom, and the indelible mark he left on their careers.
His former colleagues have also shared heartfelt messages, remembering him not just as a coach but as a mentor and friend. John Terry, who worked with Shakespeare at Aston Villa, recalled his unwavering support and invaluable insights. Players like Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez, who thrived under his guidance, have expressed their gratitude for his belief in their abilities and the confidence he instilled in them.
As the football community mourns the loss of Craig Shakespeare, it is clear that his legacy will live on. His contributions to Leicester City's historic triumph and his influence on those he worked with will be remembered for years to come. His story serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication that drive the beautiful game and the lasting impact one individual can have on the sport.
Josh Tate
August 2, 2024 AT 19:00Man, it’s so heartbreaking to hear about Craig Shakespeare – the guy who helped bring that crazy Leicester miracle will always be in our hearts.
His calm presence on the bench and genuine care for teh lads made a massive difference, and you could feel his sincerity in every pep talk.
Even though I wasn’t at the games, I could tell from the interviews how much he meant to the squad.
Rest easy, Craig, you’ll be missed by fans and players alike.
John Smith
August 16, 2024 AT 14:12Honestly, anyone who forgets that Shakespeare wasn’t the mastermind behind the title is just not paying attention – he was the tactical glue, not the headline maker.
His contributions are well-documented in coaching manuals, so it’s not surprising the club fell apart after his departure.
It’s a reminder that football is a team effort, not just a singular hero.
Alex Soete
August 30, 2024 AT 09:24What a legend! Craig Shakespeare showed us that dedication, humility, and a love for the game can bring a community together.
His journey from the backroom staff to the steering wheel of a Premier League title reminds us that hard work truly pays off.
Let’s keep his spirit alive by supporting the clubs he helped build and by passing on his positive attitude to the next generation of coaches.
Cheers to the man who taught us that every challenge is an opportunity.
Cara McKinzie
September 13, 2024 AT 04:36Honestly, the whole “miracle” narrative is just overblown – Shakespeare rode the wave of Ranieri’s hype and got way more credit than he deserved.
His stint as manager was a disaster; the team went downhill fast, and the fans felt the sting.
Sure, he had a nice smile, but the stats don’t lie – it’s a classic case of media hype over real impact.
Joseph Conlon
September 26, 2024 AT 23:48While many are quick to paint Craig Shakespeare as an unsung hero, the reality is far more nuanced.
He, after all, was never the main architect of Leicester's 2015-2016 triumph, merely a cog in a larger machine.
That said, his presence on the sidelines does raise questions about the true weight of an assistant manager's influence.
One could argue that the meteoric rise was more a product of Ranieri's charismatic leadership than any tactical input from Shakespeare.
Yet the club's decision to promote him later suggests there was at least a perceived value, however superficial.
His brief tenure as head coach, though, proved that the skill set required to assist differs markedly from that needed to command.
The rapid decline in form after his appointment is evidence that his understanding of top‑flight pressures was limited.
Critics love to romanticize his loyalty, but loyalty without results is just an emotional crutch.
Looking at his subsequent roles, he bounced around like a journeyman, never truly leaving a lasting imprint anywhere.
Even his stint with the national team was fleeting, raising doubts about his capacity to adapt at the highest level.
Fans often overlook the fact that many of his former players have moved on, citing diplomatic reasons rather than genuine admiration.
The narrative that he was a mentor is, in many ways, a convenient story to soften the bitter reality of underperformance.
From a statistical standpoint, his win percentages as manager were mediocre at best, and that cannot be ignored.
Moreover, the relegation battle that followed his return to Leicester underscores the inconsistency associated with his methods.
If we strip away the emotive language, what remains is a career that, while respectable, lacks the hallmark of true greatness.
In sum, Shakespeare's legacy is a mixed bag: a competent assistant, a struggling manager, and a name that will be remembered more for sentiment than substance.
Mohit Singh
October 10, 2024 AT 19:00Another forgettable footnote in football history.