After David Villa’s unveiling as New York City FC’s first ever signing, the City Football Group (CFG) have announced that the Spanish forward will be travelling down under as part of a guest stint for sister club Melbourne City.
Villa will play 10 games in Melbourne beginning with the season opener before heading back to the United States to begin his new chapter in New York.
Last appearing for Atlético Madrid in their stunning title triumph in La Liga, Villa has also played for Real Zaragoza, Valencia and the illustrious Barcelona for a total of over 300 league appearances.
In addition to his club career, the forward has also been capped 94 times by Spain, scoring 56 goals and his achievements including winning the World Cup and EURO Championships.
Villa is also part of Spain’s final squad for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil to start next week, meaning he is still in the pomp of his career.
The move to Australia is full of benefits for Villa, who can continue to play competitive football before New York City commences their inaugural Major League Soccer campaign in 2015.
“It’s very good for me in every sense,” Villa said.
“From a football point of view it’s the opportunity to play in a new league in a different country, and of course it will be ideal for me to get some competitive football in the period before the MLS season gets under way. I’m sure that playing for Melbourne City FC will be a marvellous experience.
“What I’ve always done throughout my career is do the best I possibly can. That is what I will do for Melbourne City FC in every game that I play for them. I’ll be giving everything for the team, just like I have with every club I’ve played for.”
Melbourne City head coach John van’t Schip was undoubtedly delighted with the star signing, who will arrive in Australia still in peak condition.
“David Villa is still at the peak of his game; he is playing his third World Cup in Brazil, has just won the Spanish league and is an instinctive and gifted striker who will contribute significantly to Melbourne City FC,” van’t Schip said.
“We are confident David will be an incredible asset to the playing group and his experiences in Europe and for his country will help our players not only on the pitch, but in training as well”, he added.