Former Spain and Barcelona striker David Villa has announced he will retire from football at the end of the season.

Villa, who won the 2010 World Cup and the European Championships in 2008 with Spain, secured eight trophies during five seasons at Barcelona, including two La Liga titles and the Champions League in 2011.

The 37-year-old currently plays in Japan's J1 League at Vissel Kobe alongside former Barca team-mate Andres Iniesta and Germany international Lukas Podolski.

David Villa poses with his family after announcing his retirement at a press conference

The ex-Barcelona striker appeared tearful as he confirmed he is bringing an end to his career

Villa, who now plays in Japan with Vissel Kobe, will hang up his boots at the end of the season

The former Barcelona frontman made the announcement on his Twitter account

Villa, 37, will end his career in the Japanese league with Vissel Kobe, whom he joined last year

Villa won 98 caps for Spain, scoring 59 goals for the national team, landed the Euro 2008 Golden Boot and was named in the team of the tournament.

Villa said in a statement on social media: 'After 19 years as a professional, I have decided to retire from playing football at the end of this season.

The veteran forward looked solemn as he delivered the news on Wednesday afternoon

Villa won 98 caps, lifting the World Cup in 2010 and the 2008 European Championship

Villa confirmed his plans to retire in a press conference hosted by his club Vissel Kobe

'Thank you to all the teams, coaches and teammates that have allowed me to enjoy this dreamed career.

'Thank you to my family, that has always been there to support me through good and hard times. It is my objective to put the cherry on top by winning the Emperor's Cup with Vissel Kobe on January 1st.

'From then on, I will continue to enjoy football through all the projects that we're currently developing with DV7 group. Thank you for all the love.'