Mexico captain Rafa Marquez signs for Hellas Verona

Published Aug. 4, 2014 4:15 p.m. ET

foxsports

VERONA, Italy -- Mexico captain Rafa Marquez has signed for Serie A side Hellas Verona.

Marquez's former Mexican club Leon announced the move Monday, with a statement saying ''we wish him the best of success in his new club, in the Italian league, Hellas Verona.''

Marquez spent a season at Leon, returning to Mexico following 13 years abroad. In Brazil, the 35-year-old defender became the first player to captain his national side in four consecutive World Cups.

Marquez writes on Twitter: ''Thank you Leon for all the joys and challenges. I'll keep you forever in my heart.''

Italian media reports Marquez has penned a one-year deal at Verona, with a second-year option. It is a return to Europe for Marquez, who spent seven years at Barcelona.