David Villa bids farewell to Atletico Madrid, will join New York City FC
The 32-year old Spain striker hinted that he will be leaving Atletico Madrid this summer. David Villa, who has been chosen in the 23-man Spain World Cup squad, said that he has received an “irresistible” offer to join an unnamed club which he “cannot refuse.”
"It is an irresistible project for me and my family," he said.
"It is very, very good. It is about football and I have to accept it.” he added.
He has been linked with a move to New York City FC, the new MLS franchise owned by the EPL champions Manchester City. David Villa would be New York City FC’s first star signing which is set to kick start its football journey from the next MLS season.
"I would like to thank the people at Atletico and those that tried to convince me to stay, like coach Diego Simeone and the rest of the coaching staff." he told the Atletico Madrid website. He also added that he always wanted a new challenge in his life and he had been looking forward to an opportunity like this where he can get that.
David Villa joined Los Rojiblancos on a free transfer from Barcelona where he spent three successfull seasons. David Villa scored 13 goals in the league this season, leading the attack alongside Diego Costa, as Atletico Madrid overthrew the Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid to clinch the la liga title fo the first time since 1996.
| Club | Seasons | Goals | Trophies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Zaragoza | 2003-2005 | 32 | Copa del Rey (2003-04) |
| Spanish Super Cup (2004-05) | |||
| Valencia | 2005-2010 | 108 | Copa del Rey (2007-08) |
| Barcelona | 2010-2013 | 33 | La Liga (2010-11, 2012-13) |
| Champions League (2010-11) | |||
| Copa del Rey (2011-12) | |||
| Spanish Super Cup (2010-11, 2011-12) | |||
| Club World Cup (2011-12) | |||
| Uefa Super Cup (2011-12) | |||
| Atletico Madrid | 2013-2014 | 13 | La Liga (2013-14) |