David Villa named first captain of New York City FC
New York City FC has named striker David Villa its captain ahead of its inaugural season, the team announced on Sunday.
Villa, 33, who signed with NYCFC last year for a reported $6 million, is the leading scorer in Spanish national team history. He has previously played for FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
NYCFC, which is owned by Manchester City, announced last week that former City executive Tom Glick will be the team's new president and chief business officer Tim Pernetti will leave the team after its first game.
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The club has faced criticism leading up to its first season for misleading fans about the signing of Frank Lampard from Manchester City. Lampard will not join NYCFC until after the Premier League season ends.
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NYCFC will play its first game on Saturday, March 8 against fellow expansion club Orlando City.
- Paul Palladino
