David Villa has announced an end to his New York City FC career.
New York City FC confirmed on Wednesday that the Spanish striker will leave when his contract expires at the end of December.
“I can only say thank you, thank you to everybody. First, to City Football Group that gave me the opportunity to come here. To NYCFC and MLS for accepting me. To everybody from the bottom to the top in the club who helped me day-by-day,” Villa said in a statement.
“Thank you to the people in the offices, the people working with the team and the coaches and staff. Thank you to my teammates – without them it would have been impossible to be successful. Thank you to all the people working in the media that always gave me the respect and the love.
“Obviously, our fans, I remember the first day I showed the jersey and the supporters were there. I would have liked to give the supporters the MLS Cup, but I don’t have any doubts that in the next years the club will get it for sure.
My experience here was amazing. It gave me everything as a soccer player, as a person, and as a family man. I’ll always remember this experience with love. My heart is here and I’m an NYCFC supporter forever.”
DAVID Villa scored 80 goals in 124 MLS appearances and was named the league’s most valuable player in 2016. He was recalled to the Spain squad in August 2017, three years after his original retirement from international football.
NYCFC Sporting Director, Claudio Reyna also spoke of the news, saying: “David has been an incredible ambassador and captain to this Club since the moment we signed him. His professionalism and leadership helped us through the challenges that a new team faces when they come into the league. He’s represented New York City FC tremendously both on and off the pitch and has been a real leader for this football club.”
Reyna added: ““I truly believe that David will be remembered as one of the best players to ever play in MLS. He will forever be a legend amongst all of our wonderful supporters and everyone here at NYC FC wishes David nothing but the best in the remainder of his career. He will always be a part of NYC FC.”
David Villa said he intends to continue his playing career, but at present, is unsure of his next location.
