Craig Shakespeare: 1963-2024

A man of immense talent, unwavering dedication, and heartfelt passion for the beautiful game, Craig’s passing will be mourned heavily by all who knew him, as well as the football community at large.

Born in Birmingham on 26 October, 1963, Craig’s journey in football is a story of ability, passion, and success. A capable midfielder in his playing days, he played for teams including Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, and West Bromwich Albion – leaving an indelible mark wherever he went.

Craig's relationship with Leicester City was deeply rooted and successful. He served as Assistant Manager under Nigel Pearson, contributing significantly as the Club not only won the League 1 title and went on to secure promotion to the Premier League, but also miraculously achieved survival in the 2014/15 season on their return to the top-flight. Craig’s influence and expertise put him at the forefront of all these pivotal moments in our Club's history.

In the 2015/16 season, against all odds, Craig’s role was again instrumental as Leicester City clinched the Premier League title under Claudio Ranieri. As much as it was his tactical knowledge that made a difference, it was also the personal connections and relationships he forged throughout the Club that made him so important. In particular, Craig played a significant role in the career of one of Leicester City's greatest-ever players, Jamie Vardy, whom he supported throughout his early years at the Club.

As Manager in 2017, Craig again found himself at the forefront of a night that will be forever etched into Leicester City history. He led the team for a magical UEFA Champions League night where we triumphed over Sevilla at King Power Stadium to reach the quarter-finals. His reputation as a man forever committed to the Leicester City cause was further underlined when he answered the Club’s call to return for another spell as Assistant Manager under Dean Smith in the 2022/23 season.

Outside of Leicester, West Bromwich Albion, Hull City, Everton, Watford, Aston Villa, Norwich City and England benefited from his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to football excellence. Every player and staff member who worked under him felt the impact of his presence, which was marked by wisdom, kind-heartedness, and an insatiable passion for the game.

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.

To Craig’s wife Karen and children Elle and Jed, everyone at Leicester City Football Club extends their deepest condolences at this difficult time. Their pain is shared by all who knew, respected and loved Craig.

He leaves a legacy at Leicester City like few others and 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.