Atletico Madrid have announced that former striker David Villa has returned to the club as a member of its board of directors.
The appointment comes more than a decade after Villa left the Spanish club following a successful playing spell.
Atletico confirmed the new structure of their board during a meeting held at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
The governing body will consist of eleven members. Club president Enrique Cerezo will continue in his role as chairman. Miguel Angel Gil Marin will remain chief executive officer.
Villa is one of the most recognisable additions to the club’s leadership group. The former striker enjoyed an important season at Atletico during the 2013/14 campaign.
He played a key role as the club secured the La Liga title. Atletico also reached the Champions League final during that memorable season.
Villa featured in 47 matches across all competitions, bagging 15 goals and four assists.
His contributions helped Diego Simeone’s side produce one of the most historic seasons in the club’s modern history.
The former Spain international now returns to Atletico in a completely different capacity. Villa expressed pride and excitement after accepting the new role.
“I am very happy to be able to return to the club with new responsibilities,” he said. “But I have the same desire to continue helping make Atletico Madrid greater season after season.
“The club has experienced significant growth over the past few years. I hope to contribute to our continued success.”
Club president Cerezo welcomed Villa back to Atletico and praised his connection with the club.
“This has always been his home,” Cerezo said. “We are very pleased that he has accepted this challenge.”
Villa remains one of the most decorated players in Spanish football history. He is the all-time leading goalscorer for the Spain national football team.
His return to Atletico signals another step in the club’s efforts to combine football experience with leadership in the boardroom.
