David Villa is heading to Melbourne City FC ahead of the start of the domestic season in Australia.
The World Cup winner was unveiled as New York City’s first signing in June and will head to Melbourne for the start of the Hyundai A-League season, which kicks off on Friday, October 10th.
Villa is scheduled to arrive in Australia for the official season launch on Tuesday, October 7th and will begin training with the Melbourne City FC squad in advance of the opening game of the season versus Sydney FC.
“The overall goal is to help the team perform well while I am there, support the Melbourne City FC team, build relationships, enjoy the style of football the league [in Australia] has to offer and, obviously, I want to do my job well and help Melbourne City to win as many games as possible,” said Villa, who will wear squad number 9.
“This is a new and fantastic challenge for me but it will not be easy, nothing in world football is. This, like all other chapters in my career, is an important one. Being able to play in a different country and league, and have the opportunity to help a great club achieve further success is a really exciting prospect and I'm ready to get started.
“I’ve enjoyed training in New York but footballers want to play games. I feel very fit at the moment and am looking forward to playing and training with the squad.”
New York City FC Sporting Director, Claudio Reyna, said.
“Playing for Melbourne City FC is a tremendous opportunity for David and his continued progression towards the start of New York City’s first season in MLS. When David joined the Club, it was important we put together a schedule that ensured he would remain in peak physical condition. This move ensures that David will be as fit as ever, before beginning the training camp with the rest of the NYCFC squad in January 2015.
“David has been working hard in New York but this move gives him the opportunity to play games and test himself in what we know is a very competitive league.
“David is a fantastic professional and a person that wants to challenge himself as we’ve seen throughout his exceptional career. We’re all looking forward to watching him play and it will be fantastic for New York City fans to follow his progress and see their new player in action.”
Season tickets to see David Villa and New York City FC’s inaugural season in MLS are on sale now. Call 855-77-NYCFC or visit www.nycfc.com/shop to order online.
Follow David Villa’s progress at Melbourne City FC at www.nycfc.com and @NYCFC
