Leicester City have confirmed that club captain and Premier League icon Jamie Vardy will depart the club at the end of the season, bringing an end to a glittering 13-year spell at the King Power Stadium.
However, the 38-year-old striker has made clear he is not retiring and plans to continue his playing career.
In a heartfelt statement on Wednesday, the Foxes hailed Vardy as “our greatest ever player”, celebrating a remarkable journey that saw the former non-league forward rise to become one of English football’s most feared attackers.
Vardy Leaves Behind a Legacy of Goals and Glory
Since signing from Fleetwood Town in 2012, Vardy has netted 198 goals in 498 appearances for Leicester, including a club-record 143 Premier League goals.
His 24-goal haul in the 2015–16 season was instrumental in Leicester’s shock title triumph, one of the most remarkable stories in football history.
The former England international also played a key role in the club’s 2021 FA Cup victory, as the Foxes lifted the famous trophy for the first time, defeating Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley.
Reflecting on his departure in an emotional video shared by the club on social media, Vardy said: “To the fans of Leicester, I’m gutted this day has come. I’ve had 13 unbelievable years here, with incredible highs. This club will always hold a massive place in my heart.”
He added: “This isn’t retirement—I’m still hungry, still driven. I may be 38, but I want to keep doing what I love most—scoring goals.”
A Legend in Leicester’s History Books
Leicester City chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha paid tribute to Vardy’s immense contribution:
“Jamie is a unique player and an even more special person. He holds a place in the hearts of everyone connected with Leicester City and has my deepest respect and affection.”
Vardy’s departure comes at a difficult moment for the club, with the Foxes enduring what he himself called a “miserable” season.
Leicester were recently relegated from the Premier League, currently sitting 19th in the table with just 18 points from 33 matches.
Despite the sombre circumstances, fans are expected to give Vardy a hero’s send-off as one of the greatest players ever to wear the blue shirt prepares for a new chapter in his football journey.