“It has taken me some time to process the change that is happening in my life and this is a message that for many moments over the last years I never thought I would be writing. But, of course, all good things come to an end and my time as a Manchester United player has just finished.
“It would be impossible for me to express through this text all the feelings that I have been experiencing over the last few weeks, but to sum it up, I would like to say that I am the proudest man in the world for having represented this unique club for the last eight-and-a-half seasons. It is something that I would never have dreamed of when I was little, as it felt too distant for a kid in Spain to one day, one day play for one of the best clubs in the history of football.
"But sometimes reality exceeds dreams. As I am writing these lines today, I couldn't be more grateful with what my career has brought me so far and I'm as excited as that little kid about what the future might bring from now on.
“The same passion for playing football as that kid's remains inside of me. It goes without saying that I want to thank every staff member that works in the club and that makes it so special... every manager and every teammate that I have crossed paths with during my time in Manchester.
"We haven't experienced the best period in the history of the club but we did have some amazing memories along the way in the form of trophies and special moments together that will stay forever in my mind.
"Thank you all - I will miss you. For you, our supporters, I don't really find words to describe how grateful I am and how special you've made me feel. I feel very loved and this is something for what neither me nor my family will ever be thankful enough.
"Manchester is and will always be a massive part of my life, on and off the pitch, and I really feel like an adopted Mancunian. Living here and understanding what it means to be part of this singular place in the world and its culture, it's something truly special.
“I feel I belong here. I wish nothing but the best to the club and the new manager, and I really hope this is the start of a new era full of great football, trophies and enjoyment for you, our fans. It is nothing more than what you deserve and nothing less than what this football club should be about.
“This is not a goodbye, but a see you soon, as I will keep coming to Manchester whenever I can. But for now, from the bottom of my heart, thank you very much for letting me be part of your history. I am truly honoured and proud, and I will always be one of you."
A wonderful gentleman, a fantastic role model and representative of both the club and the sport, and a fine player with a great sense of sportsmanship, an unquestionable work ethic, and a rare head for the game.
Juan
Mata’s farewell message
posted on 11/6/22
I still remember when he destroyed Liverpool at Anfield in 2015.
Stevie G coming off the bench at HT and getting ejected 45 secs later.
Liverpool dead and buried.
posted on 11/6/22
PS, Thanks for the 10 million+ I earned for sitting on my behind.
posted on 11/6/22
2 years at Chelsea playing some of his best football with standout lasting individual moments & memories (prematurely cut-short by Mourinho), to 8 years of nothingness at United is a bitter pill to swallow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG08ycRjiEQ
Had Mata stayed at Chelsea...not been ostracised and disposed of, he'd perhaps be regarded as highly as Zola (or Silva for City in the same era).
Phenomenal in his final season - https://video.twimg.com/ext_tw_video/1515051047307386882/pu/vid/1296x720/TE8fALJ7IOguhAJD.mp4 one of the highest level attacking creativity in the last decade at the club.
CL winner that he set out to achieve was accomplished prior to Mourinho appointment, is a small crumb of comfort.
Never heard a bad word said about Juan.
The ultimate exemplary professional
posted on 11/6/22
Doesn’t he donate a large proportion of his wages to good causes?
Moneys better off in their hands than the United transfer kitty 😂
posted on 11/6/22
One of the few post fergie signings who liked having the football at his feet and could consistently make a simple 3 yard pass and move into a new space to receive one. Pre Jose he was one of the better signings. But unfortunately for him didn't possess the cultured playing qualities of the likes of a Fellaini . Yes, his lack of pace was a problem which got worse over time.
Plus he 'got' United. which soooo many of these signings didn't.
posted on 11/6/22
He had his moments but overall another underwhelming signing like most post SAF.
Some say he should have played at number 10 more but he got chances there and games passed him by. Bruno in the first 12-18 months at United was twice the player Mata ever was for us.
posted on 11/6/22
Harsh opinions. Was not his choice to sit on a bench or not be in the squad. Not his choice to offer the contract. If called he would be ready and give his best.
posted on 11/6/22
Farewell Johnny Kills.
posted on 11/6/22
He and Herrera should’ve been the foundation of our midfield for many years. They were our two best players, surrounded by monkeys.
posted on 11/6/22
For me, and more to the point, 'he was one of us' like Denis, Cantona, Vidic. Players from overseas that came to love us., Park, Schmeichel, VDS and others.