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Leicester City Legend Jamie Vardy to Depart After 13 Seasons
After an incredible 13-year tenure, Jamie Vardy, a legend for Leicester City, will leave the club at the end of the season. The 38-year-old striker, celebrated as one of Leicester’s all-time greats, played a pivotal role in the club’s improbable Premier League triumph in 2016 and their 2021 FA Cup victory. His departure marks the end of an era for the Foxes.
Vardy’s Leicester City Career
Vardy inked a 12-month extension last summer following the team’s promotion from the Championship, but this season has presented challenges. Recently, he issued an apology to fans following the confirmation of relegation with five games remaining, openly labeling his own performance this season as a “total embarrassment.”
From Non-League to Premier League Icon
Vardy’s journey is a remarkable story in modern football. Joining Leicester from non-league Fleetwood for £1 million in 2012, he ascended to become an England international and a standout striker in the Premier League. He has scored 198 goals in 435 appearances for Leicester, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
A Golden Boot and Unforgettable Memories
During the 2019-20 season, at age 33, Vardy achieved the distinction of being the oldest player to secure the Premier League Golden Boot. He contributed 18 league goals during the previous season as the club earned promotion, and he added seven goals this season.
Farewell Message: “Leicester City Has Been My Second Home”
In a heartfelt farewell message on social media, Vardy reflected that Leicester “did the impossible” by clinching the league title and that he carries memories to “last a lifetime”. He highlighted, alongside the trophies, unforgettable moments such as a Champions League quarter-final appearance and a successful escape from relegation.
“I have been here so long that I truly thought it would never end,” he said. “This has not only been really difficult for me to write but also a really difficult decision to make. Leicester City has been my second home, my extended family, my life for 13 years. The club, the city, the people, means so much to me and my family.”
What’s Next for Jamie Vardy?
Vardy clarified that he will not be retiring and is rumored to be considering opportunities in Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. “I want to keep playing and doing what I enjoy doing most, scoring goals. Hopefully there is one or two more for Leicester between now and the end of the season, and many more in the future. I might be 38 but I’ve still got the desire and ambition to achieve so much more.”
Leicester City’s Current Situation
Leicester, preparing to face Wolves on Saturday, currently sits 19th in the Premier League with 18 points garnered from 33 matches. They have suffered defeat in 16 of their last 18 matches under manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, whose return next season remains uncertain.
Tributes from the Top
Leicester’s chair, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, commented: “Jamie is unique. He is a special player and an even more special person. He holds a place in the hearts of everyone connected to Leicester City, and he certainly has my deepest respect and affection. I am endlessly grateful for everything he has given to this football club.”