Would you swap Juan Mata for Kevin Strootman?

Whilst Juan Mata’s reputation at Manchester United isn’t great, it’s hard to deny that he’s made an impact.

Just look at his stats. In 19 appearances, he’s managed to find the back of the net 8 times. That’s a pretty decent return for an attacking midfielder. You can also compare it favorably to his return whilst he was at Chelsea (33 in 135).

The trouble is more that he’s struggling to influence the game in other ways. His passing hasn’t been quite as effective as it used to be and he seems to be having difficulty sniffing out opportunities. It strange that such a naturally gifted player, who technically speaking is one of the best in the Premier League, is having such a difficult time adapting to life at Old Trafford.

Perhaps it’s easiest to blame Jose Mourinho. He’s the man who sidelined Mata, disparaged him and knocked his confidence. Before then, the Spaniard was enjoying the best years of his career.

Now some fans seem to want him out of Old Trafford. It’s this outlook that must have generated the following article: The Mirror recently ran a piece suggesting that Manchester United were willing to entertain a swap deal for Roma’s Kevin Strootman, where Mata would be sent in the other direction. Has it really come to this?

One thing’s for sure: Kevin Strootman certainly looks like a good option. He’s been recovering from injury for quite some time, but it’s clear he’s a talented individual. He’s one of football’s rare all-rounders. He can do it all: tackle, win the ball back, dribble, pick out a pass and score goals. He’s also a fierce competitor with a great attitude.

He’s been labelled ‘The Dutch Roy Keane’, so why wouldn’t Manchester United be interested?

My only hope is that signing Kevin Strootman doesn’t necessitate the sale of Juan Mata. I understand why fans are frustrated with his progress, but the fact that he’s been so effective in front of goal, despite being out of form is telling. He’s a top class talent who will eventually come good.

Manchester United fans just need to be patient. Fingers crossed that Louis Van Gaal feels the same way.

What’s your take? Would you trade Juan Mata for Kevin Strootman?

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