2016 Premier League winner leaves Leicester

Leicester City have officially announced that veteran striker Jamie Vardy will leave the club at the end of the current season, marking the end of a legendary 13-year spell. The 38-year-old joined the Foxes from Fleetwood Town in 2012 and has since become a club icon, etching his name into Premier League history with both individual and team achievements.

Reacting to the announcement, Vardy expressed his mixed emotions, saying, “Gutted that this day has come…but I think the timing is right.” He emphasized that his departure from Leicester does not mark retirement, adding, “This isn’t retirement. I want to keep playing and doing what I enjoy most – scoring goals.” Vardy turns 39 in January but remains keen on continuing his professional career.

Vardy’s most remarkable moments at the club was his contribution to Leicester’s historic 2015-16 Premier League title win. He was also named Premier League Player of the Season during that campaign. His 2019-20 Golden Boot victory, with 23 goals, further cemented his status as one of the top strikers of his generation. In total, Vardy has netted 232 goals across 536 appearances for both Fleetwood and Leicester.

Club chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha praised Vardy’s immense impact, saying he “holds a place in the hearts of everyone connected to Leicester City.” Former teammate Robert Huth described Vardy as “the ultimate teammate,” highlighting his ability to chase down lost causes and score in any situation despite not being the best trainer.

Vardy is Leicester’s third-highest goal scorer and has the fourth-most appearances for the club. Among active Premier League players, only Mohamed Salah has more goals than Vardy’s 143. He also holds the record for the most goals scored after turning 30, with 107 – surpassing legends like Ian Wright and Alan Shearer.

As speculation builds around Vardy’s next move, discussions have emerged about whether he can still compete at the Premier League level. While some believe his top-flight days may be over, others hope a club might take a chance on the veteran striker. Vardy remains confident: “I’ve still got the desire and ambition to achieve so much more.”