Juan Mata is a man who needs no introduction. Furthermore, he is a World Cup winner, a Champions League winner, and much more. Despite recent arrivals at Old Trafford, Juan Mata continues to find the pitch.
Juan Mata built his career at Chelsea, attaining several prestigious honors. However, his success at Manchester United sets him apart from the rest.
Jose Mourinho coached Mata during his tenure at Chelsea, so the boss knows what the midfielder is capable of. Since Mourinho’s arrival at Manchester United, there have been many transfers in the midfield, but one player remains: Juan Mata.
Mourinho brings in new and exciting talent, especially to the midfield. Despite all the players brought in to take Mata’s role, he still manages to find significant time on the pitch. For example, Alexis Sanchez, Jesse Lingard, and Marcus Rashford are all players that can play Mata’s position, but Mata finds a starting role over these players.
Additionally, Mourinho brought in Henrikh Mkhitaryan to play in Mata’s position. Only a season later, and the Armenian has already left Old Trafford. Players come and go, but Mata stays in a favorable position under Mourinho.
While the Spaniard only has 3 goals and 4 assists, he is relevant for reasons other than goal contribution. In the second leg of Manchester United’s Champions League match with Sevilla, Mata came onto the pitch as a sub, and he immediately changed the game. Manchester United appeared to be more lively on the pitch, and Mata advanced the ball into threatening positions.
Juan Mata is best known for his supportive play, but he is known for scoring as well.
Juan Mata is not a must start for Mourinho at the moment, but that does not mean that he does not play a significant role at Manchester United. The Spanish midfielder is a threat in attack, whether it is a free kick or open play.
Take a look at one of Mata’s most memorable goals:
Also, take a look at one of many free kicks Mata has scored off of:
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Ultimately, Juan Mata is one of few players to survive the David Moyes era of Manchester United. Talent keeps flowing into Manchester United, but Mata continues to impress at United. Mourinho must remain mindful of the talent he possesses because he can always rely on Mata to get the job done.