Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy will leave the club at the end of this season.
The Foxes announced on Thursday that Vardy will depart after 13 years at the King Power Stadium. The 38-year-old forward joined Leicester in 2012 from non-league side Fleetwood Town.
He leaves as Leicester’s all-time top Premier League scorer, with 198 goals in 498 appearances. Vardy famously scored 24 goals during the 2015–16 season, helping Leicester win their first-ever top-flight title.
“To the Leicester fans, I’m gutted that this day has come, but I always knew it would,” the English striker said in a farewell video posted by the club on social media.
“I’ve had 13 incredible years at this club, filled with success and a few lows, but mostly highs. It’s finally time to say goodbye, and it devastates me—but I believe the moment is right,” he added.
Leicester played in the Premier League this season but are set to be relegated to the Championship, sitting 19th with 18 points and just five games remaining. Vardy featured in 32 matches and scored 8 goals.