It’s difficult to understand how Juan Mata has struggled to make his mark with Manchester United. How did the Spaniard go from being one of Chelsea’s most important players (in fact, he was voted their Player of the Season two years in a row), to being an also-ran at Manchester United. It’s a bizarre and unwelcome change of pace for Juan Mata, who should be winning rave reviews given his ability level.
In terms of pure technical ability and passing nous, there are few footballers in the world who can match Juan Mata. What’s more, he has a tendency for getting into goal-scoring positions and finding the back of the net. He’s got 10 goals in 34 appearances for Spain and he’s got 8 goals in 21 appearances for Manchester United.
Despite all the criticism that’s often pointed his way, this is an excellent return for a central midfielder.
But there’s no denying that something isn’t quite right at Old Trafford. After Jose Mourinho criticised him last year, he hasn’t been the same. He just doesn’t strike me as the dynamic presence that Manchester United need to shake them out of their slump.
If Manchester United are on top, then Juan Mata is a good option. If they’re struggling, however, then he tends to be fairly ineffective.
This brings me to The Express‘s claim that Juventus are preparing a £20m bid for Juan Mata that they’ll register during the January transfer window. Considering that Manchester United spent £37.1m on the Spaniard, I’m sure this bid will get laughed off the table.
But if Juventus are willing to make a bid that more accurately reflects Juan Mata’s ability, then The Red Devils should consider selling up. If they can send Mata packing and bring somebody else in without losing a penny, then they’ll be in a better position than they’re currently in. It’s certainly worth considering.
I’ll be sad to see Juan Mata go, but it’s probably a smart move all things considered. I’m sure that he will fare better in Serie A, where he’ll be given a little more time on the ball. Manchester United on the other hand, will get an opportunity for a fresh chance. Why would they turn that down?
What’s your take? Is is time for Louis Van Gaal to cash in Juan Mata?
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No way Juan Mata is a class player and we need to keep hold of our star performers. I don’t believe Juan has failed to make his mark at United. A player could always take a little time to find his feet’s at a new club, and Mata at first was used by Moyes out of his favourite number 10 role, but towards the end of the last season he started to settle well. As far as i am concerned he has been one off our best players so far, and as a good goal and assist ratio!
He’s a luxury player like Berbatov was. He’ll score and create goals but he has no pace and goes missing and slows everything down. David Moyes got absolutely mugged by Mourinho. Mata is worth 20 million at most and he won chelseas player or the year when Chelsea were no better than arsenal are now and struggled to qualify for the top 4 in the league