David Villa has confirmed he will be retiring from international football after this summer’s World Cup in Brazil.
The 32-year-old has won the World Cup and European Championship during a glittering La Roja career, though he missed out on a place in the Euro 2012 winning squad due to injury.
Speaking to Spanish media today, the player admitted that the upcoming tournament in Brazil would represent the final chapter of his days as a Spain player. He also however stressed his determination to ensure that Vicente Del Bosque’s team successfully defend their title.
“It’s not nice to say I’m leaving, but obviously during the World Cup I will play my last matches for the national team,” Villa said.
“Now I want to enjoy it from the first day, have a great World Cup and I intend to secure another star [for the shirt].”
Villa will also be changing his club side, having recently agreed a deal to join MLS outfit New York City from Atletico Madrid. He explained his reasons for his move stateside.
“One of the reasons I accepted the offer was because I still have a lot of football in me. If not, I would have gone home.
“I want to make a name for myself here and I want people to talk about Villa in this part of the World.
“I’m going to train, I will have someone at my side for the whole time.
“After all the hussle [throughout my career] it will do me good. I’ve had a lot of years without summer holidays and I will be able to recover well during these months.”
Finally, Villa commented on the club he is departing, Spanish champions Atletico.
“People are very happy at Atletico. People have been saying that a lot of players are going to leave, but it’s normal that the European teams want Atletico’s players. It’s a source of pride.
“They have their contracts and I’m sure Atletico will perform very well in the coming years.”
