David Villa has been named Best MLS Player at the 25th annual ESPYS.
The MLS MVP was crowned the league’s best player, beating off competition from Andre Blake, Stefan Frei, Matt Hedges and Bradley Wright-Phillips to land the award.
The 35-year old was nominated following his 23-goal contribution to NYCFC’s first-ever run to the MLS Playoffs in 2016 and for his stellar first half of the current campaign.
With 12 goals already to his name in 2017, Villa has fired his team to the upper echelons of the Eastern Conference, scoring four in his last four appearances.
David expressed his delight at receiving this prize, paying tribute to his colleagues and the supporters.
Villa told NYCFC.com: “I’m very happy and proud to receive this award on behalf of all of my teammates and coaches who help me every day to score goals and to win games for NYCFC.
“Ever since I came to this club I’ve been living an amazing dream in this incredible city playing for this great club and its passionate fans.
“Thank you to everyone who voted for me for this prestigious award – it means so much to me.”
Building upon his MVP second season, Villa scored his 50th and 51st goals for the club in the victory over Seattle last month and has been in red hot form since, netting against Minnesota and Vancouver in NYCFC’s last two games.
Villa follows in the footsteps of David Beckham, Tim Cahill and Thierry Henry in winning this MLS ESPYs award.
The 25th ESPYS were hosted by Peyton Manning and brought together exceptional teams and athletes across all athletic pursuits for a ceremony that was broadcasted live on ABC from LA’s Microsoft Theater.
Everyone at New York City FC would like to congratulate David on this latest award.
