Is Age Just a Number for Vardy in Italy?

Former Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy has embarked on a new chapter of his football career with Italian club Cremonese, firmly stating that "age is just a number." The 38-year-old, who spent 13 prolific years at Leicester, believes he still has what it takes to perform at the highest level, having recently signed a free transfer with the newly-promoted Serie A side.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Jamie Vardy joined Cremonese after leaving Leicester City, where he scored 200 goals.
• Vardy believes age does not define a player’s capabilities.
• Cremonese started the season strongly, winning against AC Milan and Sassuolo.
• Vardy plans to learn Italian but emphasises football’s universal language.
• His focus is on helping Cremonese stay in Serie A this season.

Jamie Vardy's Legacy at Leicester City

Vardy's tenure at Leicester City is nothing short of remarkable. Joining the club in 2012 from Fleetwood Town, he quickly made a name for himself as a clinical striker. Over 500 appearances, he netted an impressive 200 goals, with a standout season during the 2015-16 campaign when he scored 24 goals, helping Leicester achieve a historic Premier League title. This victory was widely regarded as one of the biggest upsets in football history, showcasing Vardy's significant role in the club's success.

Transition to Italy: A New Challenge

After parting ways with Leicester at the end of the last season, Vardy made headlines by signing with Cremonese. As a club newly promoted to Serie A, Cremonese is aiming to establish itself in Italy's top division. Vardy's experience and goal-scoring prowess could be pivotal in their quest for survival.

Age Is Just a Number

In a recent interview, Vardy addressed sceptics who question his ability to perform at an elite level given his age. "You must be one of the doubters. You're one that I'll have to prove wrong," he remarked, indicating that he feels physically capable of competing. His commitment to training and maintaining fitness is evident, as he emphasised: "As long as my legs are doing exactly what they used to and still feel as fresh as they do then I will carry on."

Vardy's Debut and Future Aspirations

Vardy is set to make his debut for Cremonese soon, potentially facing Hellas Verona. He acknowledges the challenge ahead but expresses confidence in his ability to adapt. "I will learn Italian, but it is not a problem: football has its own language, with the ball," he stated, reflecting his belief in the universal nature of the sport.

Team Dynamics and Early Season Performance

Cremonese has made an impressive start to their Serie A campaign, securing a surprising victory against AC Milan and a thrilling win over Sassuolo. Vardy's arrival adds further depth to an already promising squad. "The main task is making sure we stay in the league," he noted. This mindset mirrors his experience at Leicester, where survival was initially the priority before they could aim for greater achievements.

The Importance of Leadership

As a veteran player, Vardy's leadership will be invaluable in guiding younger teammates through the rigours of Serie A. His experience can help shape the club's culture and instil a winning mentality. The transition from being a key player at Leicester to a new environment in Italy might present challenges, but Vardy's proven track record suggests he will rise to the occasion.

What Lies Ahead for Vardy and Cremonese?

Looking forward, Vardy's focus remains on contributing to Cremonese's success. His goalscoring ability, combined with his seasoned perspective, can help the team navigate the challenges of the Serie A season. With a robust start, the club aims not only to survive but to thrive, potentially pushing for mid-table safety and beyond.

Conclusion: A New Chapter Awaits

Jamie Vardy's move to Cremonese marks an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career. As he embraces the challenges of Serie A, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can continue to defy age and contribute significantly to his new team. With his determination and competitive spirit, Vardy has the potential to make a substantial impact in Italy.

As Vardy embarks on this journey, one question remains: Can he prove that age truly is just a number in the world of football? #JamieVardy #Cremonese #SerieA

FAQs

Why did Jamie Vardy leave Leicester City?

Jamie Vardy left Leicester City after a 13-year spell during which he became one of the club's greatest strikers, having scored 200 goals. His departure followed the end of the last season, allowing him to pursue a new challenge with Cremonese in Italy.

What are Vardy's main goals with Cremonese?

Vardy aims to help Cremonese secure their position in Serie A, focusing on survival in the league while leveraging his experience and leadership to guide the team through the season.

How has Vardy performed in his career so far?

Throughout his career, Vardy has been known for his exceptional goal-scoring ability, particularly during the 2015-16 Premier League season, where he helped Leicester achieve an unexpected title win.

What does Vardy mean by "football has its own language"?

Vardy's statement signifies that regardless of language barriers, the game of football is universally understood through its play, skills, and tactics, allowing players to communicate effectively on the pitch.

Is age a factor in professional football?

While age can impact a player's performance, many athletes, like Vardy, believe that fitness, skill, and experience can allow them to continue competing at a high level, regardless of their age.