Manchester United fans have been paying tribute to the “nicest man in football” after it was confirmed Juan Mata will be leaving the club this summer.
United confirmed on Thursday that Mata will depart when his contract expires at the end of the month. The 34-year-old leaves Old Trafford having made 285 appearances, scoring 51 goals and winning four trophies in the process.
Mata’s departure comes after Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard also had their exits confirmed on Wednesday. They follow Edinson Cavani and Nemanja Matic.
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In a statement on the club’s website, United said: “Juan made more than 30 appearances in each of the 2017/18, 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons and although his tallies dropped below 20 in the last two terms, he remained a highly regarded member of the squad. His team-mates and members of staff never tired of praising his professional attitude and positivity.
“Thank you for dedicating eight years of your career to United, Juan. Everyone at the club wishes you all the best for the future.”
United’s fans have joined the club in thanking Mata for his services. The former Spain international will be well remembered for his personable nature off the pitch, as well as his performances on it.
Mata’s departure means six players from the 2021/22 first team will now leave the club this summer, with goalkeeper Lee Grant also on his way. More exits could be confirmed this summer as Erik ten Hag gets down to work on his rebuild at Old Trafford.
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