Marcos Senna

Marcos Senna has ended his 11-year stay at Villarreal to continue his playing career in the USA.

The 36-year-old made 363 appearances in all competitions during his stay at El Madrigal, more than any other player, and was part of the side that reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2006.

And there was one last success in Senna's time with Villarreal, after Sunday's 1-0 win over Almeria secured automatic promotion back to La Liga, following the disappoint of relegation last season.

"Last year I said I had agreed to take Villarreal back to where they should have never left, which is the Primera Division," he explained to reporters, as reported on Football Espana.

"Now that objective has been met and I think it is time to face a new professional and personal challenge, but I want you to know that, wherever that is, my heart will always be Amarillo.

"Here I have lived some amazing experiences and it would be impossible to pick out any in particular because there have been so many days of happiness.

"On from this, I mean to one day return to Villarreal, the club will live forever in my heart as too will the fans, the people at the club and the city, they have shown an exceptional affection and I can never thank them enough.

"Thank you very much, it was a pleasure to be at your side."

It has not been revealed as to which MLS side the midfielder will play for next season, but the New York Cosmos is speculated as a likely destination.

Senna was born in São Paulo but was granted Spanish citizenship in early 2006 and played a crucial role in the first of Spain's recent major triumphs, starting five of the six games in their EURO 2008 victory.