Marian Lowther

Written by Marian Lowther

Published: 03 Aug 2024

15-facts-about-craig-shakespeare
Source: Skysports.com

Who is Craig Shakespeare? Craig Shakespeare is a name that might ring a bell for soccer fans. He is best known for his role as a football manager and coach. Born on October 26, 1963, in Birmingham, England, he has had a long career in the world of football, both as a player and a coach. Shakespeare played as a midfielder for several clubs, including Walsall and Grimsby Town. However, his coaching career truly put him in the spotlight. He gained significant attention when he became the assistant manager at Leicester City, helping the team achieve the unthinkable by winning the Premier League in 2016. Later, he took over as the head coach, continuing to make waves in the football community. Want to know more about this fascinating figure? Keep reading to uncover 15 intriguing facts about Craig Shakespeare!

Table of Contents

Who is Craig Shakespeare?

Craig Shakespeare is a name that resonates in the world of football. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership skills, he has made significant contributions to the sport. Here are some intriguing facts about him.

  1. Early Life and Career
    Craig Shakespeare was born on October 26, 1963, in Birmingham, England. His journey in football began at a young age, showing promise early on.

  2. Playing Position
    During his playing days, Shakespeare was a midfielder. His vision and passing ability made him a key player on the field.

Playing Career Highlights

Craig Shakespeare's playing career spanned several clubs and brought him into the limelight. Here are some notable moments.

  1. Walsall FC
    Shakespeare started his professional career at Walsall FC in 1981. He made over 350 appearances for the club, becoming a fan favorite.

  2. Sheffield Wednesday
    In 1989, he moved to Sheffield Wednesday. Although his time there was short, it was a significant step up in his career.

  3. West Bromwich Albion
    Shakespeare also played for West Bromwich Albion, where he continued to impress with his consistent performances.

Transition to Coaching

After retiring as a player, Craig Shakespeare transitioned into coaching, where he found even greater success.

  1. Leicester City
    Shakespeare joined Leicester City as a coach in 2008. His tactical knowledge and leadership skills quickly made him an integral part of the team.

  2. Premier League Title
    He was part of the coaching staff when Leicester City won the Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season, one of the most remarkable achievements in football history.

  3. Interim Manager
    In February 2017, Shakespeare was appointed as the interim manager of Leicester City after Claudio Ranieri's departure. He led the team to several crucial victories.

Managerial Career

Craig Shakespeare's managerial career has been marked by both challenges and triumphs.

  1. Permanent Manager
    In June 2017, he was named the permanent manager of Leicester City. His tenure, however, was short-lived, ending in October 2017.

  2. Assistant Roles
    After leaving Leicester City, Shakespeare took on assistant managerial roles at various clubs, including Everton and Watford, showcasing his adaptability and expertise.

Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond the pitch, Craig Shakespeare has a life filled with interesting facets and contributions to football.

  1. Family Man
    Shakespeare is known to be a family-oriented person. He often credits his family for their support throughout his career.

  2. Mentorship
    He has mentored numerous young players, helping them develop their skills and understanding of the game.

  3. Respected Figure
    Within the football community, Shakespeare is highly respected for his knowledge, experience, and dedication to the sport.

  4. Media Appearances
    Occasionally, he appears as a football pundit, sharing his insights and analysis on various platforms.

  5. Continued Influence
    Even after decades in football, Craig Shakespeare continues to influence the game, whether through coaching, mentoring, or media engagements.

Craig Shakespeare's Impact

Craig Shakespeare's journey through football has been nothing short of fascinating. From his early days as a player to his significant role as a manager, his contributions have left a mark. His time at Leicester City, especially during their Premier League triumph, showcased his tactical acumen and leadership skills. Shakespeare's ability to step up as a manager and guide the team through challenging times speaks volumes about his expertise.

His career highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in the world of football. Whether on the pitch or the sidelines, Shakespeare's dedication and passion for the game have been evident. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring footballers and managers alike. Craig Shakespeare's legacy in football continues to grow, reminding us of the impact one individual can have on a team's success and the sport as a whole.

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