Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy did not hold back in a scathing social media outburst following the club’s relegation from the Premier League, confirmed after a 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at the King Power Stadium on Sunday. The 38-year-old striker, who has been a cornerstone of the Foxes’ historic successes, described the 2024-25 season as a “s*** show” and a “total embarrassment” in a heartfelt Instagram post that resonated deeply with fans.
The loss to Liverpool marked Leicester’s 16th defeat in their last 18 matches, capping a dismal campaign that saw the 2016 Premier League champions manage just four league wins and 18 points. The Foxes’ relegation, their second in three seasons, was compounded by a record nine consecutive home league games without scoring—a stark contrast to the club’s glory days under Vardy’s leadership.
In his emotional post, Vardy expressed profound anger and sadness, taking accountability for the team’s failures. “At this point, I don’t even know what to say. No words I have can ever express my feelings of anger and sadness with the way this season has gone. There are no excuses,” he wrote. “Collectively, as players and as a club, we failed. There is simply no hiding, and I refuse to entertain any suggestion of doing so.” He concluded with an apology to the fans: “Sorry we haven’t performed, and sorry we end the 2025 season with such a s*** show.”
Vardy, who scored seven goals in 31 Premier League appearances this season, has been a symbol of Leicester’s remarkable journey, from their fairy-tale 2015-16 title win to the 2021 FA Cup triumph. His contributions, including a Premier League Golden Boot in 2019-20, have cemented his status as the club’s greatest-ever player. However, the veteran forward admitted that this season’s struggles were a personal low, calling it “miserable” and an “embarrassment.”
The relegation comes after a turbulent season for Leicester, who returned to the Premier League in 2024 after winning the EFL Championship. The departure of manager Enzo Maresca to Chelsea, followed by Steve Cooper’s sacking after just 12 games, left the team in disarray. Ruud van Nistelrooy, appointed in November, was unable to reverse the slide, securing only eight points in his tenure. Van Nistelrooy himself hinted at uncertainty over his future, stating, “I know what’s necessary. I’m waiting for that conversation to take place.”
Vardy’s contract, set to expire in June 2025, adds further uncertainty. Despite his age, the striker has no plans to retire and has expressed a desire to continue playing at the top level, with speculation linking him to clubs like Everton, West Ham, and even Manchester United. However, his deep connection to Leicester, where he has spent 13 years, could see him sign an extension, even if it means playing in the Championship next season.
Fans took to social media to commend Vardy’s honesty, with many echoing his frustration. Posts on X highlighted the sentiment, with one user noting, “Vardy’s raw emotion shows how much he cares. This hurts for all Leicester fans.” Others criticized the club’s management, particularly director of football Jon Rudkin, who has faced fan backlash for recent decisions.