Former Manchester United star Juan Mata has expressed how keen he is to lift trophies with Galatasaray after sealing a move to the Turkish giants.
The Spanish playmaker left Old Trafford at the end of last season after a hugely successful seven-and-half year spell with the Red Devils. After reportedly rejecting a switch to MLS, Mata has finally found his next employers having penned a one-year deal with the option of an extra year with Galatasaray, having flown into Istanbul for talks on Thursday.
Speaking after his move to the Nef Stadyumu, the 34-year-old highlighted his intention to claim silverware with the club. He said: "I feel so good. I am excited and very motivated. I'm grateful for being here. Everyone is being very friendly. I can't wait to win with Galatasaray.
“Everyone told me what a nice atmosphere this place has. I'm waiting for the moment when I will experience this. I can't wait to fight in front of our fans. Galatasaray is the team with the greatest success in Turkey. It is also a club that has a place in the history of football. Thank you everyone for the warm welcome.”
Mata certainly has a task on his hands if he intends to add to the Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup that he won during his time as a Red Devil. The Istanbul giants slumped to a 13th-placed finish in the Turkish Super Lig last season - going their second consecutive season without a trophy.
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They have also not started the new season in the best form either having won three out of their opening five matches of the campaign, leaving them sitting seventh in the current league standings.
Mata could potentially make his debut this weekend as Galatasaray travel to take on Kasimpasa away from home in what would be his first venture outside of the top five European leagues.
Speaking after his Old Trafford exit was confirmed, he said: "From here, from the middle of the pitch at Old Trafford, at night. I'm alone. Actually, this feels like a dream.
"I wanted to say thank you very much to all of you for your support over the years and especially during the difficult times that we lived together.
"I will never forget you. Thank you very much. All the best from the bottom of my heart and goodbye."
Ahead of leaving Man Utd, Mata eventually ended up making 285 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils, scoring 51 goals in all, having joined the club from Chelsea in 2013.
