Italian football has a new feel-good story as Jamie Vardy arrives at Cremonese, bringing fresh energy to a club defying expectations in Serie A. The English striker’s transfer represents one of the season’s most surprising moves, joining a team that has spent most of its history outside the top flight.
Cremonese supporters welcomed Vardy with open arms, their enthusiasm evident when dozens greeted him at Milan’s Linate Airport despite the late hour. The warm reception included chants about European qualification, reflecting the growing optimism around a club that entered the season as relegation favorites.
The team’s early performances have already challenged that narrative. Cremonese opened their campaign with a historic 2-1 victory at San Siro against AC Milan – their first-ever away win against the Rossoneri and first opening-day victory in Serie A history. They followed this with a dramatic 3-2 home win against Sassuolo, secured through a last-minute penalty.
Manager Davide Nicola, known for his ability to guide teams to safety, has emphasized creating a positive environment. “The energy we transmit to our supporters creates a special connection,” he noted after the Milan victory.
Cremonese’s transformation has been years in the making under owner Giovanni Arvedi, who purchased the club in 2007 when they competed in the third division. While maintaining financial discipline – their summer transfer spending remains under €15 million – the club’s stability has enabled ambitious signings.
The team’s tactical approach under Nicola suits Vardy’s strengths. Playing in a compact 3-5-2 formation, Cremonese relies on rapid counterattacks and efficient finishing. Despite turning 38 in January, Vardy’s direct style and proven goalscoring ability – including nine Premier League goals last season – make him an ideal fit.
Several players have contributed to the strong start. David Okereke and Federico Bonazzoli formed the attacking partnership against Milan, with Bonazzoli sealing the victory with an spectacular bicycle kick. New signings like Alessio Zerbin have impressed, while midfielder Jari Vandeputte continues his creative influence from lower-league football.
The club’s six points from two matches temporarily placed them atop the Serie A table, generating excitement around a team that has spent only nine seasons in the top division since its 1903 founding. Their previous Serie A appearances typically ended in relegation, with only the mid-1990s campaigns avoiding the drop.
Vardy’s arrival adds another chapter to a club embracing its underdog status while building genuine momentum. For Cremonese supporters, the early success represents more than just points – it’s the beginning of what could become their most memorable top-flight campaign.
