David Villa celebrating Diego Godin's goal during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between Getafe and Atletico Madrid at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez stadium in Madrid, Spain April 13, 2014 (Photo: AP)
David Villa of Spain has signed a three-year contract with New York City FC, becoming the first player on the expansion Major League Soccer team that starts play next season.
The 32-year-old forward helped Spain win the 2008 European Championship and the 2010 World Cup. He is a member of his country's roster for next month's tournament.
He missed the 2012 Euros, which Spain also won, after breaking his left leg while playing for Barcelona in the Club World Cup. He holds Spain's record with 56 international goals.
MLS said Monday that Villa was acquired on a free transfer from Atletico Madrid, where he scored 15 goals in 47 games in all competitions last season.
He previously played for Sporting Gijon (2001-03), Zaragoza (2003-05), Valencia (2005-10) and Barcelona (2010-13). He helped Barcelona win the 2011 Champions League title.
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