Jamie Vardy has finally spoken out after receiving harsh criticism from sections of the Italian media following his underwhelming home debut for Cremonese in their goalless draw against Udinese.
The 38-year-old Leicester City legend, who joined the Serie A club in the summer, endured a quiet afternoon as his new side failed to find the back of the net — prompting scathing remarks from Italian journalists questioning whether his signing was “a romantic mistake” rather than a smart sporting move.
The Italian media had described his performance as “uninspired” and suggested that Cremonese’s decision to bring in the veteran striker “added more nostalgia than goals.”
But Vardy, known for his resilience and unapologetic character, if he had to broke his silence — addressing the noise around him with the kind of calm defiance that defined his Premier League rise.
“People will always talk, and that’s fine. I’ve had criticism all my life, from non-league to the Premier League — it never stopped me before, and it won’t stop me now,” Vardy reportedly said when asked about the backlash.
“I’ve only just arrived here. It takes time to settle, learn the rhythm, and connect with teammates. My focus is on helping Cremonese win games, not on headlines,” he added.
Despite the criticism, Leicester City fans back in England have flooded social media in solidarity with their former hero, rallying behind the striker they still affectionately call “the GOAT.” Many defended Vardy passionately, calling out Italian outlets for being too quick to judge a player who’s made a career out of proving people wrong.
One fan wrote:
“He can still run hard, which has always been his thing. Guy was a late bloomer — 38 on him is like 29 on Rooney. All I’m saying.”
Another supporter urged patience, commenting:
“Everyone wants everything immediately these days. Give the bloke a chance.”
Others couldn’t help but inject humour into the situation, with one post reading:
“You have to have Red Bull and blue WKD on tap for Jamie. Pretty sure it’s the Italians who betrayed him.”
While some mocked Cremonese’s stature in Serie A — calling them a “yo-yo club” — most of the English fanbase stood firm in their admiration for the striker’s journey and attitude.
“His first start in a new team. Give the goat a chance. Flipping eck,” said another.
For now, Vardy appears unbothered by the noise, determined to find his feet in Italy. His career has been built on silencing doubters — and as Leicester fans reminded everyone, “38 on Vardy isn’t the same as 38 on anyone else.”
If history is anything to go by, counting out Jamie Vardy has never ended well for anyone.