Manchester United see Juan Mata as technical director in the future, according to reports. The midfielder joined Chelsea in January 2014. He won three trophies before it was announced that he had been released by the club.
Manchester United announced Mata’s departure on Thursday and said: “Thank you for dedicating eight years of your career to United, Juan.
“The whole club wishes you the best for the future.”
And now the Manchester Evening News claims that United sees Mata as technical director in the future.
It is claimed that United originally wanted to keep the 34-year-old as ambassador, while they also hoped to organize a “senior mud title” for the game creator.
They were supposedly ready to offer Mata one more game contract.
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And he was also part of the team that won the Carabao Cup and the Europa League the following year with Jose Mourinho.
In statements after it was confirmed that Mata would leave United, the midfielder paid tribute to the club’s fans.
“From here, from the middle of Old Trafford’s pitch, at night. I’m alone,” he said in a video message recorded the night United beat Brentford 3-0.
“It simply came to our notice then.
“I wanted to thank you all for your support during these years and especially during the difficult times we lived together.
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“I will never forget you. Thank you very much.
“All the best from the bottom of my heart and goodbye.”
And tributes to Mata have also begun to pour in, with compatriot David De Gea at the helm.
“I thought it would be very difficult to put into words, but when I thought about it more, the main feeling I have left is happiness,” she said.
“This guy has been a teammate, a friend and he is my family. The best professional, one of the best players and people you could have in your life.
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“I am very grateful to have made so many trips with you, happy that our paths have crossed and we have shared a dressing room together.
“I love you my brother, I wish you everything and absolutely nothing but joy and success in your next stage of an incredible career.”
During his time with United, Mata made 285 appearances in all competitions.
But he has only played 30 times in the last two seasons.