Vardy Bids Emotional Farewell as Leicester’s Modern Icon Ends Glorious Era

TDT | Manama

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Jamie Vardy has brought the curtain down on a legendary 13-year spell at Leicester City, bowing out with his 200th goal in the club's colours as the Foxes secured a 2-0 win over fellow relegated side Ipswich Town on Sunday.

At 38, Vardy walked off the King Power Stadium pitch for the final time as a Leicester player, receiving a rousing standing ovation and a guard of honour from his teammates. It was a fitting tribute for a player who rose from non-league obscurity to become the symbol of the club’s most glorious era.

Having joined Leicester from then fifth-tier Fleetwood Town for just £1 million in 2012, Vardy's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. He led the club to an improbable Premier League title in 2015-16 and became their all-time leading scorer in the modern era.

“They’ll be fine,” Vardy said post-match, exuding faith in the club’s future. “We’ve got a good squad and some talented young lads coming through. I’m glad I’m not them — football is mentally brutal, and I couldn’t go through it all again. But I’ll always keep an eye on the club I love. They’re in my heart.”

In his 500th appearance, Vardy found the net one last time, marking a fairytale ending to a storied career in Leicester blue. Substituted in the 80th minute, he took in a standing ovation from a grateful home crowd — many of whom held aloft banners that read "Thank You, Vards" and "Forever a Fox."

Addressing the supporters, an emotional Vardy said, “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking myself and my family in as your own. I hope I’ve repaid you.”

Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy praised his outgoing captain, saying, “To score your 200th goal on your 500th appearance — that tells you everything. Jamie has been a unique player and a unique person for this football club. His story, his edge, his character — he’s a legend, simple as that.”

Though Leicester's relegation was confirmed weeks earlier, the focus on Sunday was entirely on celebrating a player who defied expectations at every turn.

The Foxes travel to Bournemouth next week to close out their Premier League campaign, but Vardy’s last bow has already been made. His place in Leicester folklore is more than secure.

From non-league hopeful to Premier League champion, Jamie Vardy leaves behind not just goals and trophies — but a legacy of belief, grit, and loyalty that will inspire Leicester for years to come.