By KEVIN KOCZWARA
Marcos Senna spent 11 illustrious seasons with Villarreal before joining the New York Cosmos this past summer. Now, he will have a chance to make a brief return in front of many of the same fans that cheered him for so long.
The Cosmos announced on Wednesday that Senna and the Cosmos will travel to El Madrigal Stadium to take on Villarreal on Nov. 19 in a tribute match for the veteran who controlled the Villarreal midfield for more than 350 appearances. The match will come at the end of New York’s initial season in NASL.
“We’re delighted that we have the opportunity to visit Spain at the conclusion of our season,” Cosmos head coach Giovanni Savarese said in a statement released by the club. “It’s great that Marcos will be able to play in front of the Villarreal fans once again and for our squad it’s a chance to play one of the top teams in La Liga.”
During his time with Villarreal, Senna helped lead the Yellow Submarine to second in La Liga one season and to a Champions League semifinal.
Senna joined the Cosmos in June for their first year in the NASL and has helped lead the team to their first NASL Soccer Bowl. New York will take on the Atlanta Silverbacks in the championship game on Nov. 9.
Villarreal, currently fourth in La Liga, has made a resurgence this year after spending last year in Spain’s second devision.
The Cosmos also announced on Wednesday that their trip to Spain will last until Nov. 19 to get additional training before heading off for the winter break.
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What do you think of the Cosmos heading to Spain to face Villarreal? Is there any chance that New York can win the friendly? Think Senna will score a goal in the tribute match?
Share your thoughts below.