David Villa believes Marco Asensio can replicate his fine form for Madrid for Spain, potentially leading the team to another ‘glorious’ era.
Villa was part of the historic Spain squad that lifted two European Championships as well as World Cup, and the 33-year-old veteran now believes that the new batch of youngsters – including Madrid star Asensio – will bring success back to La Furia Roja. The former Barcelona star got his first international call-up in three years ahead of his side’s qualifying ties against Italy and Liechtenstein, and praised the young potential of the Spain squad.

“We have to see [Asensio] to enjoy him,” Villa said. “He’s spectacular and he has had an incredible evolution in the last few months.

“We’ll enjoy him as a Spanish player for many years. He’s making a case to be a starter in Madrid – but that’s not up to me, it’s up to the coach.”

The young Asensio, despite only being 21 years of age, has already impressed in his short stint for the Blancos. Featuring in 43 appearances across all competitions Madrid in just over a year, the youngster scored a fine 25-yard finish in a 3-1 win against Barcelona during the Spanish Supercopa.

Villa is hopeful that the current Spanish team will enjoy another period of success with their young talent after crashing out of the 2014 World Cup in the group stages in what was a disappointing tournament. It was also the last time Villa featured for his international side.

“I have seen very well the evolution of the team at this time. It has huge talent with many great players,” he said.

“We all said that we had to have patience after winning the World Cup and that streak of five or six years. The quality of the squad now is amazing.

“Why is there not going to be another glorious time like the one we had?”

The 33-year-old’s surprise inclusion in the Spain squad came due to Diego Costa’s omission. Costa remains in Brazil after being told that he is no longer part of Antonio Conte’s plans for Chelsea, and his future still remains in question. Villa was Costa’s teammate at Atletico, and had nothing but praise for the wantaway Chelsea striker.

“I do not care if I’m here because of Diego Costa’s situation or not,” Villa said. “He’s a great friend and I want him to solve his problem.”