In a recent interview, David Villa has talked about the future of Lionel Messi, who has been heavily linked with a return to Camp Nou this summer. He talked about his experience playing alongside the Argentine during his time at Barcelona.
The Spanish footballing legend lauded Messi, citing him as a major reason behind his success at Barça. “I scored close to 50 goals in three years, almost all of them with a contribution from Leo Messi,” he said (h/t FCB World).
Villa played for Barcelona for three years between 2010 to 2013. During that time, he racked up 48 goals in 119 competitive appearances, playing a key role alongside Messi and others. He notably won the UEFA Champions League along with two La Liga titles.
When asked about Villa’s favourite goal for Barcelona, he said, “My goal in the 2011 Champions League final.” The forward had indeed scored the third goal in Barça 3-1 win over Man United, helping the Catalans build a formidable two-goal cushion.
Talking about his experience with Messi, Villa added, “When Leo Messi is by your side it’s a blessing, often when things get complicated he comes up with a solution.”
In the midst of the Negreira scandal that has harrowed Barcelona, David Villa was even asked whether or not he had gained the referee’s favour during his time at Camp Nou.
The forward rejected the claim, suggesting referee’s mistakes are a part and parcel of the game. “The truth is, no, neither in Barcelona nor in any other club. Referees make mistakes like us. Their task is difficult, which is to make decisions in a very short time,” he said.
Villa is currently trying his luck in sports management and is currently serving as the global sports director for Indian Super League outfit Odisha FC. He is also the owner of CF Benidorm, having acquired the club earlier in the year.