David Villa – Spain’s Goal-Scoring Maestro

David Villa, born on December 3, 1981, in Langreo, Spain, is regarded as one of the greatest Spanish strikers of all time. Known for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to score in big games, Villa was the top scorer for Spain’s golden generation, leading them to UEFA Euro 2008 and the 2010 FIFA World Cup victories. His club career saw him shine at Valencia, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid, winning multiple league and European titles.

Early Life and Career

Villa’s football journey began at Sporting Gijón, where he worked his way up through the youth system before making his senior debut in 2001. His goal-scoring instincts earned him a move to Real Zaragoza in 2003, where he won his first major trophies.

With Real Zaragoza, he won:
🏆 1 Copa del Rey (2003–04)
🏆 1 Supercopa de España (2004)

His impressive performances caught the attention of Valencia, where he truly established himself as one of Europe’s best strikers.

Valencia – Spain’s Best Striker

Villa joined Valencia in 2005, where he became one of La Liga’s deadliest goal scorers, consistently competing with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for the Pichichi Trophy.

With Valencia, he won:
🏆 1 Copa del Rey (2007–08)

💎 Became Valencia’s all-time fourth top scorer (129 goals in 225 matches).
💎 Scored over 20 La Liga goals in four consecutive seasons.

Despite interest from top clubs, Villa remained loyal to Valencia for five seasons before making a high-profile move to Barcelona in 2010.

Barcelona – The European Champion

Villa signed for Barcelona in 2010 for €40 million, forming a legendary attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Pedro. His arrival helped Barcelona dominate both La Liga and Europe.

With Barcelona, he won:
🏆 2 La Liga titles (2010–11, 2012–13)
🏆 1 UEFA Champions League (2010–11)
🏆 1 Copa del Rey (2011–12)
🏆 2 Supercopa de España (2010, 2011)
🏆 1 UEFA Super Cup (2011)
🏆 1 FIFA Club World Cup (2011)

⚽ Scored a stunning goal in the 2011 Champions League final against Manchester United, sealing Barcelona’s victory.
🔥 Played a crucial role in Barcelona’s tiki-taka dominance under Pep Guardiola.

After three successful seasons, Villa left for Atlético Madrid in 2013.

Atlético Madrid – La Liga Glory

At Atlético Madrid (2013–2014), Villa played a key role in helping Diego Simeone’s side win their first La Liga title in 18 years.

With Atlético Madrid, he won:
🏆 1 La Liga title (2013–14)

Although he only spent one season at the club, he left as a La Liga champion, proving his winning mentality.

Spain National Team – The Ultimate Goal Scorer

Villa was Spain’s all-time top scorer (59 goals in 98 appearances) until Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi surpassed him in all-time international records.

🏆 2010 FIFA World Cup Winner – Golden Boot winner (5 goals) and Spain’s key player.
🏆 UEFA Euro 2008 Winner – Golden Boot winner (4 goals), helping Spain win their first major tournament in 44 years.
🥉 2010 FIFA World Cup Bronze Boot Winner – Third top scorer of the tournament.

⚽ Spain’s all-time leading World Cup scorer (9 goals).
🔥 Scored in four consecutive major tournaments (Euro 2004, World Cup 2006, Euro 2008, World Cup 2010).

Villa was Spain’s go-to player for big goals, leading La Roja’s golden generation to international success.

Later Career and Retirement

• New York City FC (2014–2018) – Became MLS’s MVP in 2016 and NYCFC’s all-time top scorer (80 goals in 124 games).
• Vissel Kobe (2018–2019) – Ended his career in Japan, winning the Emperor’s Cup (2019).

Villa retired in 2019, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy as one of the greatest Spanish forwards.

Playing Style and Legacy

✅ One of the best finishers in football history – Could score with both feet, from distance, and with headers.
✅ A versatile forward – Played as a striker, winger, and attacking midfielder.
✅ A clutch performer – Delivered when it mattered most in major finals.
✅ The face of Spain’s golden era – Led the team to unprecedented success.

Villa inspired modern Spanish forwards like Álvaro Morata, Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati.

Teams Played For

• Sporting Gijón (2001–2003)
• Real Zaragoza (2003–2005)
• Valencia (2005–2010)
• Barcelona (2010–2013)
• Atlético Madrid (2013–2014)
• New York City FC (2014–2018)
• Vissel Kobe (2018–2019)

Legacy

✅ 2010 FIFA World Cup & Euro 2008 winner
✅ Spain’s all-time leading World Cup goal scorer (9 goals)
✅ Barcelona & Valencia legend
✅ One of the best Spanish players of all time

David Villa wasn’t just a goal scorer—he was a leader, a champion, and a legend. His deadly finishing, winning mentality, and ability to shine in big games make him one of Spain’s greatest-ever footballers.