Juan Mata is a Man United cult hero. Despite arguably never living up to his potential, Mata provides consistency and wisdom to a United dressing room in dire need of both.
Since joining the club under David Moyes in 2014, the Spaniard has racked up 195 appearances for the Reds. He has scored 34 goals in that time.
Mata featured more regularly during his first few seasons at Old Trafford but has since become a squad player, limited to the occasional appearance. He has made just 11 appearances in all competitions this season, his lowest tally since joining the club.
Mata’s Man United future
The 34-year-old had been expected to leave the club this summer, along with a host of other players. Nemanja Matic, Jesse Lingard and Paul Pogba are among the current Reds who have either confirmed their imminent departure or have contracts nearing their end.
Despite Mata’s expected departure, his recent interview with The Athletic seemed to hint otherwise. There was a sense that the Spaniard feels could stay and work under Erik ten Hag.
Juan Mata has unfinished business
Speaking to The Athletic, Mata said: “I will see when we speak how we feel, what [Ten Hag’s] ideas are. After that, a decision will be made.
“I’ve heard he’s very methodical in the way he approaches games, wants to win but in a certain way. I just hope, from inside of me, whether or not I’m here, he can implement that, be true to himself, and win trophies with this great club.”
He added: “I am as hungry as ever to keep winning and try to keep enjoying my football. “I honestly feel within myself that I’m not finished winning, that I’m not finished competing at professional football at the best level.”
Ten Hag’s history with senior players
New Man United manager Erik ten Hag has a proven record when working with older players. Former Red Daley Blind is just one example of a player the Dutchman has reinvigorated.
Blind re-joined Ajax in 2018 and re-established himself as one of the Dutch champions’ key players. In three of the four seasons since his return, Ajax have won the Eredivisie championship.
A similar trend occurred with striker Sebastien Haller. Haller struggled to live up to the huge £45 million price tag at West Ham and moved to Ajax in 2021 with his reputation tarnished.
Under Ten Hag’s tutelage, Haller rediscovered his goalscoring touch. The striker has scored a whopping 47 goals in 66 appearances for the Dutch champions.
Ten Hag has a history of collaborating well with senior players, which would suit the ageing Mata well if he opts to extend his stay in Manchester.
Featured image credit: Getty
