Former Brazilian international Sonny Anderson has reached an agreement with club Villarreal to annul his contract.
By Alex Hough
Anderson is heading for Qatar to end a career one which has seen him play with distinction for Monaco, Barcelona and last season, Villarreal, with whom he reached the last four of the UEFA Cup.
Speaking on the club’s official website, Anderson said: “I want to thank everyone for all the care that I and my family have received.
“We have felt so at home in Villarreal during this time. I would like for everyone to understand that the possibility that has bestowed itself upon me now only happens once in a lifetime.”
Anderson thrived in an exciting Villarreal front three last season that included former Boca Juniors star Juan Roman Riquelme and Jose Mari.
“I will take great memories of my time here at Villarreal with me for the rest of my life,” he added.
“The conquest in the Intertoto last year, the excellent season we had in the UEFA Cup, and the victories in games against strong rivals are all aspects that I will never forget.
“Furthermore, I am leaving behind many friends here. I only have words of thanks to the president and the manager. Everyone has understood my situation and has made it possible for me to go and play in Qatar.
The club has understood that I am 34 years old and that this opportunity won’t present itself again. I take this team in my heart, because I’ve been treated very well here. Furthermore the dressing room has been incredible for me because it’s difficult to make friends with everyone so soon, and in my first year I felt like one of the lads.”
