Compilation Of Prime David Villa Shows How He Was The 'Most Underrated Player Of His Generation'

A David Villa compilation has showcased the Spaniard's phenomenal ability in his prime as fans branded him the 'most underrated player of his generation.'

The 39-year-old former striker thrived when he played for Spain during their dominance of the international stage.

Villa, who retired from football in 2019, became an integral part of the Spain squad and lifted both the Euros in 2008 and the World Cup in 2010.

The ex-Spain international was in fine form during a successful five years at Valencia, but it was his defining move to Barcelona in 2010 that his incredible ability was highlighted.

Villa formed a formidable trident attack force with Lionel Messi and Pedro as Pep Guardiola's Barcelona team dominated La Liga and Europe.

The former Barcelona star lifted two La Liga titles, the Champions League, two Spanish Super Cups and the Copa del Rey during his time at the Camp Nou.

One fan uploaded a compilation of when a 'prime' Villa was in his striking element with Barcelona and Spain.

The Villa compilation has left some fans to suggest that he is "one of the most underrated players of all time."

One fan posted: "Really didn't get appreciated enough during his prime, what a striker."

While someone else added: "The most underrated player of this generation."

A third wrote: "One of the most underrated players of all time."

And a fourth added: "[You] just couldn't tell whether he was a left or right footer -- a simply incredible striker."

Villa left Barcelona in 2013 and went on to play for Atletico Madrid, New York City, Melbourne City (on loan) and Vissel Kobe.

The Spanish World Cup winner later denied that his Barcelona exit was due to a rift between himself and Messi.

"Nothing happened with Messi," Villa said.

"At the time it was said a lot, but the truth is that if I had continued being [a starter] I would have stayed at Barcelona.

"The truth is that I began to lose prominence. I was always on the bench and after much thought I told the team manager that I wanted to leave."

Topics: Football, Barcelona, David Villa, Spain, La Liga

Adnan Riaz

Adnan Riaz is a journalist for SPORTbible. He studied for a B.A. in History at the University of York and followed it up with an M.A. in Multimedia Journalism at MMU. Before he started writing about sports, he spent over four years in the gaming press. He has worked for several publications, including Hardcore Gamer, LADbible and the Manchester Evening News. Follow him on Twitter to find out what he is working on next. Got a story tip for Adnan? Email him: [email protected]

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