Jamie Vardy’s tenure in the East Midlands is set to end after more than a decade at the club. Just days ago, the Foxes suffered their second relegation in three years, as they were defeated 1-0 by the league leaders Liverpool. Another season in the Championship will have been the trigger for the 38-year-old, who will now become a free agent.
The forward released his leaving message to social media this afternoon through an emotional two-minute clip. Vardy looked back on his monumental career throughout, with memories of F.A Cup delight, European Nights and the 5000/1 Premier League victory.
The veteran also thanked the pivotal figures in his career, including late owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, current owner ‘Top’, Nigel Pearson and many others. Despite a tough season, the 2019/20 Golden Boot winner still insists on continuing his career. Whilst no destination has been determined yet, his experience and finishing could be a real asset for many clubs.
As mentioned previously, Leicester’s relegation to the second tier was made final last weekend. After just a day, an emotional Vardy took to social media to express his disappointment about the season. Quotes like “there are no excuses” were included within, which mirrored the thoughts of many fans.
Despite being 38 years old, the striker has still remained a prominent figure in the squad. With seven goals and three assists, the Sheffield-born talisman is still a danger for any backline. However, with no successor, he has been relied upon too much. Both Patson Daka and Odsonne Edouard have proved to be underwhelming and failed to provide competition. Even last season in the Championship, the English international still managed 20 goals, which further shows his qualities.
Despite this, it still feels like the right time for this legendary partnership to come to an end. Vardy’s wages will still be high at the moment, and this will have been an issue given the club’s PSR and need to set up for life in the Championship. A successor to the Leicester legend has been a target for the last few years, but has come with little success. For example, Daka from RB Salzburg has never scored over seven league goals, and Tom Cannon was sold to Sheffield United.
From Non League to Premier League winner in four years, Vardy’s legacy will never be forgotten. As he still feels he has something to give, a move in and around the football league or abroad is still plausible. Some reports have speculated that a move to Championship-hopeful Wrexham could be on the cards. The Hollywood-owned League One side currently sits in 2nd place, and could have the financial capabilities to accommodate his wages.
As for Leicester City, life without such a character will be tough. Vardy was the last remaining player from the iconic Premier League-winning side, the heartbeat of the F.A Cup-winning side and a proven goalscorer. However, it had to come to an end eventually and the striker’s trademark runs in behind just weren’t effective anymore.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s side will certainly be in the market this summer for a new number nine. Daka will be the only out-and-out striker coming into next season, so a reliable finisher will be needed. Whilst there currently aren’t any rumours, academy star Jake Evans could be an option
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2025-04-25T16:32:17Z