EVER since he joined Manchester United during David Moyes’ ill-fated time in charge, Juan Mata has been a favourite with United fans.
Despite often being played out wide – as opposed to his preferred ‘floating’ position just behind the frontine the Spaniard has chipped in with some vital goals for the Red Devils.
However, the seemingly inevitable arrival of Jose Mourinho to replace Louis van Gaal spells trouble for the Spaniard.
Who would Jose Mourinho sell if he was appointed by Manchester United? https://t.co/hnO584SG4A pic.twitter.com/TbcQa1071x
— Indy Football (@IndyFootball) February 11, 2016
“Jose Mourinho is reportedly preparing to axe Juan Mata if he is given the Manchester United job.
The former Chelsea manager revealed that he would look to sell the midfielder, as well as Marouane Fellaini, during talks with United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.
Although the Spaniard had won Chelsea’s player of the year award for two consecutive seasons, Mourinho regularly left him out of his starting line-up and eventually authorised his £37million departure to their Premier League rivals.”
Mourinho deemed Mata surplus to requirements, claiming the defensive side of his game wasn’t up to scratch with his lack of pace also an issue. Mata clearly hasn’t got any quicker during his time at United so a fast exit unfortunately appears inevitable.
It would likely be met with strong resistance by Red Devils fans and could have further repercussions as Mata is very close to star United keeper David De Gea.
Surely Mata, still just 27, deserves an opportunity to show Mourinho what he brings to this United side but, if and when, the Portuguese does take charge at Old Trafford he will make it very clear that he will have the final say on all signings – both ins and outs.
So expect Mata to be one of the first to be shown the door.
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