Dídac Vilà

AC Milan On 28 January 2011, Vilà was bought by AC Milan in Serie A for a reported €3 million. After only one competitive appearance for the Italians, the 0–0 draw away to Udinese Calcio, and subsequently being highly critical of coach Massimiliano Allegri, he returned to Espanyol in early June 2011 in a season-long loan. He only missed one match during the league campaign, scoring twice but in as many away losses.

Vilà was set to join Valencia CF on loan at the beginning of 2012–13 with the option of making the move permanent at the end of the season, but the deal fell apart as he did not pass the required medical exams. Subsequently, the player underwent surgery.

For the 2013–14 campaign, Vilà moved to Real Betis on loan, again being bothered by physical problems, including a leg fracture; the Andalusians were relegated, and he subsequently joined SD Eibar in another temporary deal. After recovering, he suffered a thigh injury.

AEK Athens On 7 August 2015, AEK Athens F.C. announced the signing of Vilà on a three-year deal, with the player stating he hoped this move would see him return to his old form. He played understudy to Aristidis Soiledis during the first part of the season but eventually became the starter, impressing manager Gus Poyet for his professionalism in training.

Vilà started 2016–17's domestic league with a goal, contributing to a 4–1 home victory over Xanthi FC.

Espanyol return On 30 August 2017, Vilà returned to his first club Espanyol after agreeing to a three-year deal, with a €25 million buy-out clause.

International career In 2011, Vilà received his first Spain under-21 call-up. That year, he was selected by manager Luis Milla to the UEFA European Championship in Denmark, playing all the matches and minutes for the eventual champions.

Career statistics

Honours Espanyol B Tercera División: 2008–09

AC Milan Serie A: 2010–11

AEK Athens Greek Football Cup: 2015–16

Espanyol Segunda División: 2020–21

Spain U21 UEFA European Under-21 Championship: 2011