c11 - Signing for Manchester United
Two days later, Vardy and Shepherd left Sheffield for Manchester, accompanied by Langley.
The distance between the two cities isn't far, which is one of the reasons Vardy had always dreamed of playing for Manchester United—it felt within reach. Langley drove the car, and the 60-kilometer journey took just over an hour.
Arriving in Manchester, Langley wasted no time. Instead of giving Vardy a tour of the city, he drove straight to the Carrington Training Centre, Manchester United's state-of-the-art facility. In Langley's eyes, Vardy was a hidden gem, and securing his signature quickly was a priority—there was always a risk that other clubs might swoop in.
"The Carrington Training Centre was completed in 2000 and spans 108 acres," Langley explained as they approached. "It has 14 full-size pitches, an indoor training dome, a fitness center, and even a rehabilitation clinic. The academy covers players from U9s all the way to the first team. This is where legends are made."
Vardy listened, though his mind was elsewhere. He wasn't here for a sightseeing tour—he was about to take his first step into professional football.
"See that Bentley Continental?" Langley pointed at the car pulling into the lot behind them. "That's Phil Neville's—he always tries to be different from Gary."
The first team was already reporting for pre-season, so it wasn't surprising to see some big names around.
Vardy turned to look, and sure enough, the Bentley's gleaming logo caught his eye.
Langley chuckled at Vardy's reaction. "Trust me, Jamie, if you work hard, you'll be driving one of those soon. Forget Bentleys—if you make it, you'll be picking between Ferraris and Lamborghinis."
Vardy smirked. "Honestly, I was just thinking that Neville should get it washed. Looks like he hasn't cleaned it in months."
Langley burst out laughing. He had dealt with plenty of young talents over the years, but Vardy's attitude was refreshing—sharp, confident, but never star-struck.
Inside the Carrington offices, Langley led Vardy to the office of Luis Kirshaw, the head of Manchester United's Youth Development Academy.
"My top scout—this must be the lad you raved about?" Kirshaw greeted Langley before turning to Vardy. "Nice to meet you, Jamie. I'm Luis Kirshaw, head of youth development."
Vardy took in Kirshaw's slightly disheveled appearance. Another scruffy-looking football official—was this a requirement to work in youth development?
Still, Vardy knew appearances didn't matter. Kirshaw's role was pivotal—if he impressed him, he'd officially be a Manchester United player.
"Jamie, we'll arrange a medical exam shortly. If everything checks out, you'll sign your contract today. Welcome to Manchester United." Kirshaw smiled.
"No trial?" Vardy asked, genuinely surprised.
Usually, a young player needed to pass a trial period before being offered a contract. This felt… too easy.
Langley and Kirshaw shared a laugh.
"Langley is our senior scout," Kirshaw explained. "If we didn't trust his judgment, we'd be wasting everyone's time. If he says you're good enough, that's enough for me."
Vardy turned to Langley, now seeing him in a different light. So he wasn't just some random scout—he had real authority at Manchester United.
The medical examination was thorough, with state-of-the-art facilities assessing every aspect of Vardy's fitness, stamina, and injury history. Though not the most physically imposing player, Vardy's explosiveness and endurance were evident. The doctors confirmed that he was in top condition.
"Jamie, the doctor says you're in great shape, but we'll work on your strength. That'll come with training," Kirshaw assured him. "Now, let's finalize your contract."
Vardy had no agent and no lawyer—this was a straightforward first professional contract. At 16 years old, he was now eligible to sign a professional deal under FA regulations, ensuring he wouldn't be poached by rival clubs.
Kirshaw slid the contract across the desk.
Vardy's eyes went straight to the wages—£104,000 per year. That meant a weekly wage of £2,000.
For a youth player, this was standard—typically ranging between £1,500 and £2,500 per week, depending on talent and potential. Only exceptional players—Rooney, Giggs, Beckham—had earned more at this stage.
Still, for a kid who had been making £30 a week loading carbon fiber in a medical factory, this was life-changing money.
With a deep breath, Vardy picked up the pen and signed.
He was officially a Manchester United player.