Santi Cazorla has jumped in on the David Villa love-in that our players seem to be partaking in before our pre-season friendly against the MLS All-Stars.
Nacho Monreal recently spoke about how much he’s looking forward to facing his fellow Spaniard and now Santi has got in on the action, claiming that Villa was born with a gift.
“David is simply one of the best Spanish strikers ever,” the midfielder said to Arsenal Player.
“He has an amazing ability to score goals. He was born with a real gift and he has always worked hard to keep developing it.
“I admire him hugely as a footballer but I also admire him as a person – we are really good friends. He has helped me in many different ways in my career and I’m delighted he’s doing so well in the MLS.
“It will be a really interesting game. There are some great players in the MLS and we are lucky enough to be playing against the best of them. It will be a very special match for both sides. The most important thing is that we perform really well.”
Although Villa was very clinical, particularly during his time a Barcelona, would I say he’s one of the best in the world? I’m not sure. However, I can understand why the likes of Santi and Nacho are looking forward to playing against him on Friday.
It’ll be interesting to see how the 34-year-old’s pace matches up now that he’s grown older. Saying this, he clearly hasn’t lost his class and style – although they say you never do – as he’s been completely deadly for New York City FC since joining in 2014.
If you fancy swooning like Santi and Nacho, here are some of his latest highlights.