David Silva has signed for Real Sociedad Española after leaving Manchester City as a loose agent.
The 34-year-old spent a decade in City, winning four Premier League titles and one of the most important players in the club’s history.
After his departure, Silva gave the impression that he was about to sign a three-year contract with the Italian team Lazio, with a medical examination allegedly carried out in Rome.
However, at the last minute, he returned to his local Spain, signing a two-year contract with his new club.
Real Sociedad finished sixth in La Liga last season and, unlike Lazio, will play in the Champions League next year.
“We are very happy to announce the signing of [David Silva],” the club tweeted on Monday. “The player joins Real Madrid as an indefinite agent until June 30, 2022 #WelcomeDavid.”
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Former Spain joined Manchester City from Valencia in 2010 and made 436 appearances.
On the day he returned to Spain, the City announced that he would honor the game creator, nicknamed “The Wizard”, with an outdoor statue of The Eithad Stadium.
“David is a transformative actor, a discreet leader who has everyone around him,” said city president Khaldoon Al Mubarak.
“The statue of David will serve as a lasting reminder of the glorious moments he has given us, not only as a footballer, but also as an inspiring ambassador who has represented this football club with wonderful dignity at all times.”
Former team-backeder Vincent Kompnay, who announced his retirement from football on Monday, will also receive a tribute from the club in 2021.