Jamie Vardy is ready for a new chapter in his remarkable footballing journey, insisting that “age is just a number” as he begins life in Italy with Serie A newcomers Cremonese.
The 38-year-old striker ended a glittering 13-year spell at Leicester City this summer, departing the King Power Stadium as one of the club’s all-time greats. Over 500 appearances, he netted 200 goals, including 24 in the unforgettable 2015-16 season when Leicester shocked the world by winning the Premier League title.
Now, Vardy is embracing a fresh challenge in northern Italy after signing on a free transfer with Cremonese. The veteran forward could make his debut on Monday against Verona, and he is eager to prove that his hunger, fitness, and finishing ability remain intact despite his age.
“Age Is Just a Number”
Speaking at his official presentation, Vardy brushed aside doubts over his ability to perform in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.
“You must be one of the doubters,” he joked to a reporter. “For me, age is just a number. As long as my legs are doing what they always did and still feel as fresh as they do, then I will keep going. Right now, there are no signs of slowing down. I’ll give everything for this club.”
Vardy is not the only high-profile veteran to test himself in Italy this summer. Kevin De Bruyne and Luka Modric have also made moves to Serie A, underlining the league’s growing reputation as a destination for experienced world-class talent.
Language of Football
While Vardy admitted he does not yet speak Italian, he insists communication on the pitch will not be a barrier.
“I will learn Italian, but it’s not a problem for now,” he said. “Football has its own language — with the ball.”
Cremonese, based in Lombardy, have already exceeded expectations at the start of the campaign. They stunned AC Milan with a 2-1 victory in their opening fixture before edging Sassuolo 3-2, results that have given the promoted side early momentum.
Vardy is hopeful he can contribute to extending that strong run.
A Survival Battle Ahead
For all the excitement around his arrival, Vardy remains realistic about the club’s primary target — survival.
“The main task is making sure we stay in the league, and that’s how it was when I first joined Leicester,” he explained. “It was never about saying, ‘we’re going to push for this or that’. It was always about taking each game as it comes, giving everything, and seeing where it takes us.”
That pragmatic approach is familiar to fans who remember Leicester’s early years in the Premier League before their title-winning miracle.
Legacy in England
Vardy’s move marks the end of an extraordinary era with Leicester. From non-league football with Fleetwood Town to the Premier League Golden Boot and England caps, his story has been one of football’s most inspiring rags-to-riches journeys.
He played a central role in Leicester’s rise to prominence, not only lifting the league trophy but also helping the club qualify for the Champions League and win the FA Cup in 2021. His tireless energy, sharp movement, and lethal finishing made him a nightmare for defenders.
Though he leaves England’s top flight, Vardy’s reputation as one of the most unlikely success stories in modern football is already assured.
A New Adventure
For Cremonese, the arrival of a striker with Vardy’s pedigree is a statement of ambition. His experience and professionalism could be invaluable in guiding the squad through the pressures of a Serie A survival fight.
For Vardy himself, it is another opportunity to defy expectations — something he has been doing his entire career.
“People have doubted me before,” he said with a smile. “And I’ve always enjoyed proving them wrong.”
As the veteran forward laces up for his Italian adventure, fans in both England and Italy will be watching closely. If history is any guide, betting against Jamie Vardy is never a wise choice
