When Did Villa Join Barcelona?
Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Xavi Hernandez.. the list of football legends who have graced the Camp Nou is endless. One name that stands out among them is David Villa. The Spanish striker’s time at Barcelona was brief, but it left an indelible mark on both the player and the club.
The Arrival of El Guaje
In May 2010, Barcelona announced the signing of David Villa from Valencia. The transfer fee was reported to be around €40 million, making him one of the most expensive signings in Barcelona’s history at that time. Villa had already established himself as one of Europe’s most lethal strikers during his spell with Valencia.
Villa’s Impact on Barcelona
Upon joining Barcelona, Villa quickly settled into the team and formed a deadly partnership with Lionel Messi and Pedro Rodriguez. Their attacking trio became known as “MVP” (Messi-Villa-Pedro) and wreaked havoc on defenses across Spain and Europe. Villa’s ability to find space in the box and his clinical finishing made him an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Memorable Moments
- Goal Against Manchester United: In the 2011 UEFA Champions League final against Manchester United, Villa scored a crucial goal that helped Barcelona secure a 3-1 victory. His curling strike from outside the box showcased his technical prowess and confirmed his place among Europe’s elite.
- El Clasico Heroics: Villa had a habit of delivering in big matches, none more so than in El Clasico against Real Madrid.
In one memorable encounter in 2010, he scored twice to help Barcelona seal a 5-0 victory, stamping their authority on their arch-rivals.
- Club World Cup Triumph: Villa played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s successful FIFA Club World Cup campaign in 2011. He scored two goals in the final against Santos, contributing to a comprehensive 4-0 win.
The Departure and Legacy
Despite his contributions to the team’s success, Villa’s time at Barcelona was cut short. In July 2013, he was transferred to Atletico Madrid for a reported fee of €5.1 million. While his departure saddened many Barcelona fans, Villa left behind a legacy that will forever be remembered.
Villa’s time at Barcelona may have been relatively brief, but his impact on the club was undeniable. His goals, assists, and memorable performances contributed to the team’s success during that period. The partnership he formed with Messi and Pedro will be remembered as one of the most lethal attacking trios in football history.
In conclusion, David Villa joined Barcelona in May 2010 and left an indelible mark on the club during his time there. His skill, goalscoring ability, and memorable moments ensured that he will always be remembered as one of the greats to have worn the famous Blaugrana jersey.