Vardy set to leave Cremonese after one year; Eyes return to England | OneFootball

Jamie Vardy is set to leave Cremonese following the club’s relegation to Serie B, with the veteran English striker expected to return to England after just one season in Italian football, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 39-year-old joined Cremonese on a free transfer last summer after leaving Leicester City, where his contract had expired following the Foxes’ own relegation from the Premier League, ten years on from their remarkable title triumph in 2016.

He signed a one-year deal with the Grigiorossi and that contract expires on June 30, at which point he will depart as a free agent, via CalcioMercato.

CREMONA, ITALY – JANUARY 19: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

Italian adventure ends in relegation for Vardy as Cremonese plan Serie B rebuild

Despite moments of promise, Cremonese endured a disastrous second half of the season that ultimately sealed their fate.

The final blow came on the last day, when defeat to Champions League-bound Como, combined with Lecce’s victory over Genoa, confirmed their drop to the second tier.

A mid-season change in management, replacing Davide Nicola with Marco Giampaolo, was unable to stop the slide.

Vardy’s departure leaves Cremonese needing to rebuild their attack entirely for the Serie B campaign ahead. Whether Giampaolo, who has signed a contract through next season, remains in charge is also yet to be confirmed.