The newly named Melbourne City has gone from the wooden spoon one season to title favourites the next at Sportingbet.com.au after news that Spanish football star David Villa will take part in a 10-game stint for the club.

Sportingbet.com.au has slashed the odds of Melbourne City winning the 2014/15 A-League season from $6.50 into $5, which makes them clear favourites ahead of the Melbourne Victory ($5 out to $6).

“It’s months before the season starts but the club is making its intentions clear by bringing in these world class players and our punters are jumping on the bandwagon,” William Hill’s Andrew Brown said.

“There was already plenty of interest in Melbourne City prior to the Villa news and now it’s almost a certainty that they will start the season as well fancied favourites.”

Adelaide United, Brisbane Roar and Western Sydney Wanderers are all $6.50 third favourites: Join William Hill Australia:

For Sportingbet’s full market for the 2014/15 A-League Champions visit https://www.williamhill.com.au/soccer/futures

A-League 2014/15 – Championship winner

WilliamHill.com.au market

Melbourne Heart $5 (was $6.50)

Melbourne Victory $6 (was $5)

Adelaide United $6.50 (steady)

Brisbane Roar $6.50 (steady)

Western Sydney Wanderers $6.50

Sydney FC $7 (was $8)

Central Coast Mariners $7.50

Perth Glory $13 (was $12)

Newcastle Jets $15 (steady)

Wellington Phoenix $15 (steady)