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An era is coming to an emotional close at the King Power Stadium as Jamie Vardy, one of the most iconic players in English football history, is set to leave Leicester City at the end of the season after 13 unforgettable years at the club.
The club confirmed the news in an official statement on lcfc.com, hailing Vardy as “our greatest-ever player” and acknowledging the immense legacy he leaves behind.
“We can confirm legendary striker Jamie Vardy will leave Leicester City this summer after 13 seasons that have seen him become our greatest-ever player,” the club wrote.
Despite his departure, the 38-year-old forward has made it clear that retirement is not on the cards. Vardy remains committed to continuing his football journey, although he has yet to announce where his next chapter will unfold.
From Non-League to Premier League Champion
Vardy’s football journey is the stuff of legends. From playing non-league football with Fleetwood Town, he signed with Leicester City in 2012 for just £1 million — a decision that would change the trajectory of both his career and the club’s history.
Over the next 13 seasons, Vardy amassed 496 appearances, scoring over 170 goals. His most unforgettable achievement came in 2016, when he played a crucial role in one of the most incredible underdog stories in sports — helping Leicester City win the Premier League title against all odds.
In that same season, he broke Ruud van Nistelrooy’s record by scoring in 11 consecutive Premier League matches, a feat that etched his name permanently into football folklore.
Vardy also helped Leicester reach the Champions League quarter-finals in the 2016–17 campaign and lifted the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2021, solidifying his place among the greats.
The Final Seasons and Farewell
Even as age caught up with him, Vardy remained a vital figure in the squad. Last season, he scored 18 goals, leading Leicester to Championship glory and securing promotion back to the Premier League. However, the current campaign has been more challenging, with the striker managing just seven goals in the top flight.
Leicester’s 1-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday confirmed their relegation back to the Championship, marking a second demotion in just three seasons — a disappointing end to what was meant to be a triumphant return.
Tributes from the Club
Leicester City Chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, paid heartfelt tribute to Vardy in an emotional statement:
“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.”
What’s Next for Vardy?
While Vardy’s future remains uncertain, there is already speculation about a move to either the MLS, Saudi Arabia, or perhaps a return to the lower leagues — where it all began — in a mentoring or player-coach role.
One thing is clear: wherever he goes next, Jamie Vardy’s story is far from over. But for Leicester fans, his departure marks the end of a golden chapter — one that will never be forgotten.
