When Spanish striker David Villa became the first-ever signing for New York City FC in 2014, many thought that he would take the league by storm. Along with Frank Lampard, who initially came that summer and, eventually, Andrea Pirlo in July 2015, NYCFC was supposed to have one of the most formidable, threatening attacks in MLS with Villa leading the way.
He is, if you will, the straw that stirs the drink.
In 2016, he was the straw, the ice cubes and the cherry on top. On Tuesday the now-35-year-old captain was named the MLS’ Most Valuable Player.