Juan Mata says he appreciates the ‘amazing’ talent that Manchester United players have and advises young players to pay attention.
Former Manchester United attacking midfielder Juan Mata has expressed his thoughts on one of his former colleagues.
Juan Mata was once a beloved Manchester United player, and his arrival seemed like a game changer.
Despite scoring 51 goals and assisting 43, the widespread consensus was that we squandered him, since he was obviously one of the league’s most skilled players.
Manchester United let him leave in the summer when Erik ten Hag joined, but he is still well-liked by the fans and went on to win a J-League title with Vissel Kobe.
During a recent interview, the former United No. 8 spoke about a number of topics, including his old colleagues.
Here’s what he just stated…
Juan Mata delivers a judgment on Bruno Fernandes
Juan Mata, a former Manchester United player, is one of football’s most popular characters. The Spaniard remained at United for over a decade until departing in 2022.
Now, he’s back in a United jersey, promoting the club’s pre-season tour in what seems to be an ambassadorial position.
Speaking with ESPN on Friday, his focus was completely on the current United group as he addressed Bruno Fernandes.
“He’s a top, top talent,” Mata said, “but he’s an even greater guy. So, for me, the club’s culture should revolve on him.
“I should tell all the young players to look up to him.” I can’t express how essential he is to the club, not just because of what he’s done in recent games, scoring two goals and winning [against Sheffield United], but also because of his consistency throughout the years.
“To me, he is the one who is always there for the team. He might play well or poorly, but he is always there with the proper mindset. And that is what it means to me to be a Manchester United player.”
Mata also appreciated the second Manchester United name.
As a United player, Mata was difficult not to like since he was such a character on the team.
Despite his legs failing before he left Old Trafford, Mata always gave his best, and his technical ability is exceptional.
Marcus Rashford is one United player who hasn’t been winning over supporters lately, and Mata has spoken out.
“We all know his [Rashford’s] potential, and he knows how fantastic he can be if he achieves this consistency in his mind.
“And, of course, assuming he is not wounded, as is so frequently the case with him right now.
“So I believe the team recognizes that they have a tremendous talent in there. He has shown it in the past.
This judgment on Rashford is precisely what was required, with the United attacker in dire need of assistance to return to his peak performance.