Rafael Marquez back in Europe with Hellas Verona

Mexico captain Rafael Marquez has left Club Leon to return to Europe with Italian side Hellas Verona.

The 35-year-old defender has been playing in the Americas since leaving Barcelona in 2010, but showed that he can still compete at an elite level in his country's run to the World Cup last 16 this summer.

Marquez wants to test himself in one of the major European leagues again, and Verona have offered him the opportunity to play in Serie A next season, Club Leon president Jesus Martinez has confirmed.

"It is the player's decision to look for new challenges," read a statement on Martinez's Twitter page. "We wish him the very best of success in his new club Hellas Verona in the Italian league."

Verona have also announced the signing of Aston Villa full-back Antonio Luna on a season-long loan deal.