Back to the United States Women Newsfeed

David Villa announces his retirement after purchasing USL club

Former Barcelona star David Villa has confirmed his plans to retire once the current J-League season finishes.

The 37-year-old has been playing for Japanese side Vissel Kobe this year with three league matches remaining before an Emperor's Cup semi-final in late December.

Villa's career has spanned 19 years and began in Spain with Sporting Gijon before subsequent moves to Zaragoza, Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

After spending most his club career in his homeland, Villa then ventured to New York City in 2015, where he spent four seasons before joining Kobe earlier this year.