Juan Mata Hints At Exit From Old Trafford

When Jose Mourinho was announced as Manchester United manager thoughts turned towards Juan Mata and the inevitability of his time at Old Trafford coming to an end. That hasn't happened but the Spaniard has hinted it might.

Mata was twice Chelsea's player of the season in the two years before Jose Mourinho returned to Stamford Bridge. Then just several months into his second reign Jose sold Mata.

The Special One saw the former Valencia player as so unneeded in his squad that he was willing to sell him to 'rivals' Manchester United in what was one of the few positives of David Moyes Old Trafford reign.

Mata has become so important at Old Trafford but many thought his time was up when Mourinho arrived, especially after the new United boss subbed him on and then off in the Community Shield win over Leicester.

However instead the 28 year old has been an integral part of Mourinho's team. But despite that he admitted that he could leave England for a return to Spain soon. Speaking before yesterday's match he said:

"I don't know what will happen. I've been asked before, and I don't know. I've been here six years, and I am happy in England.

"But I love Spain still and always follow La Liga from here. I would like to play again back at home."

The Red Devils will take note of the midfielders quotes because his contract is due to end next season. If Mourinho wants to keep him then they'll want to make sure he signs a new deal this summer.

If the 'Special One' has someone in mind to replace Mata then they would have to sell him this summer or risk losing him on a free next.

_{Check out our video on the greatest Spanish XI to play in the Premier League:}

The diminutive attacking midfielder has scored six goals so far this season on they're often important goals, including yesterday's opener against Watford.

He has often had to play on the right side of United's front three or four, depending on the system, and Jose could use the player leaving as an opportunity to bring in more pace to United's right hand side.

Do you think Mata will leave Old Trafford?

Topics: Juan Mata, Jose Mourinho, Manchester United, La Liga

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a writer for SPORTbible. He covers all sport from football, formula one, cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, mma and wrestling. He obviously hates YOUR football team and has no interest in synchronised swimming.

@Sidler28