Spain’s all-time leading goalscorer David Villa says that the offer from MLS to join New York City FC was too good to turn down, and has thanked Atletico Madrid’s fans and staff in a heartfelt goodbye that paves the way for his transfer to MLS.
In an interview on the Atletico Madrid club website (see video below), former Barcelona striker David Villa said:
“It is an offer that can’t be turned down for both me and my family. These things happen in football and I have to accept it.
“I’m happy with the important opportunity that has come about for me and my family, both on a sporting and personal level. I’m also very happy to take on a new challenge. On a personal level I’ve always tried to do that throughout my career, overcoming obstacles, and I think this is another important challenge for my career and life.
“It was a great experience for me (playing for Atletico Madrid). Not just in sporting terms, which everyone saw, but also personally. I joined a great group both in terms of the dressing room, the fans and the club, who helped me a lot and made me feel very happy. I will remember this year all my life.”
A source revealed to World Soccer Talk yesterday that the David Villa transfer to New York City FC is a done deal. And the Spanish striker, who has been named in the 23-man Spain squad for World Cup 2014, was photographed yesterday entering a hospital for a medical ahead of the move to MLS.
This will be a huge signing for MLS especially considering that the 32-year striker may be an integral part of Spain’s World Cup performances this summer in Brazil.
