Leicester City have confirmed that club captain and iconic striker Jamie Vardy will leave at the end of the 2024/25 season, marking the end of a legendary chapter in the club’s history.
The 38-year-old forward, who famously helped the Foxes clinch the Premier League title in 2016, will play his final home game on May 18 against Ipswich Town.
Leicester’s Greatest-Ever Player
Described by the club as “our greatest-ever player,” Vardy joined Leicester in 2012 from non-league Fleetwood Town for just £1 million. Over the next 13 seasons, he went on to score 198 goals in nearly 500 appearances, becoming the club’s all-time top Premier League goalscorer with 143 goals.
He was pivotal in Leicester’s historic 2015/16 Premier League win, scoring 24 goals during that unforgettable campaign. He also played a key role in the club’s 2021 FA Cup triumph.
“Jamie is unique,” said Leicester chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha.
“He’s a special player and an even more special person… I’m endlessly grateful for everything he has given to this football club.”
Vardy Bids Emotional Farewell
In a heartfelt video message posted on Leicester’s social media platforms, Vardy said:
“I’m gutted that this day is coming, but I knew it was going to come eventually.
I’ve spent 13 unbelievable years at this club, with lots of success, and some downs, but the majority have all been highs.”
He called the decision “devastating” but acknowledged that it was the right time to move on.
A Season to Forget
Vardy is the last remaining member of the 2016 title-winning squad still at the King Power Stadium. Despite staying loyal after Leicester’s 2023 relegation, and helping them secure promotion back to the top flight, the club’s return to the Premier League has been disastrous.
Currently sitting 19th in the table with just 18 points from 33 matches, Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side is set for another drop to the Championship. Vardy, who has scored seven goals in 31 league games this season, didn’t hold back after their relegation was confirmed:
“This season has been nothing but miserable and for me personally, a total embarrassment. It hurts.”
As Vardy prepares to close out his illustrious career at Leicester, fans will undoubtedly reflect on the incredible moments he brought to the club—from a non-league striker to a Premier League champion and club legend.
