Julius OkorieBarely few days after Leicester City’s relegation was sealed, following their lone goal loss to Liverpool at the King Power Stadium, team captain, Jamie Vardy, has announced his decision to part ways with the Foxes. This is coming after a 13-year spell that has seen the England international net 198 goals in 498 appearances, in all competitions, showcasing his remarkable consistency and skill over more than a decade.
Following the confirmation of his exit from the club, the Foxes lauded Jamie Vardy as “our greatest ever player.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe 38-year-old English striker, who rose from the lower leagues after joining Leicester in 2012 from Fleetwood Town, has etched his name into the club’s legacy as their all-time leading scorer in the Premier League with an impressive tally of 143 goals.
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Vardy played a pivotal role in Leicester’s fairy-tale 2015-2016 Premier League campaign, scoring 24 goals and helping the club win their first-ever top-flight title.
He was instrumental in the club’s victorious FA Cup run in 2021, contributing to a memorable 1-0 triumph against Chelsea at Wembley Stadium.
In a video shared by Leicester on their official Instagram page, Vardy opened up about his exit from the club, saying: “To the fans of Leicester, 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, experiencing much success alongside some downs, but the majority of moments have been incredible highs. It’s finally time to call it a day, which I’m devastated about, but I think the timing is right. Leicester will always hold a massive place in my heart.”
Leicester City Chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, expressed his admiration for Vardy, stating: “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.”
Jamie Vardy is now the last remaining member of the Leicester City squad that won the Premier League title for the club in 2016 and is still playing at the King Power Stadium.
He chose to stay with the Foxes even after their relegation in 2023, demonstrating his loyalty and commitment. His leadership helped guide the team back to the Premier League with an immediate promotion in 2024.
This season, Vardy has managed to score seven goals in 30 league appearances. However, he has expressed frustration over the team’s performance, describing the season as “miserable” and a “total embarrassment,” especially after the Foxes were relegated again earlier this month.
Leicester City are away to Wolves in Game week 35 on Saturday.
Julius Okorie is Chief Sports and Entertainment Correspondent for Prime Business Africa. He began his journalism career with the Champion Newspaper and Sporting Champion and later moved on to Daily Independent and the Nation Newspapers. Okorie joined Prime Business Africa in 2024 bringing on board 20 years of experience in writing investigative news on Sports and Entertainment. His well researched and highly informative articles on Sports Business and general entertainment are followed by a wide range of audience.
