Manchester United’s record signing Juan Mata has stated that he wants to be part of the team from a central position. Mata made his name at Valencia as winger, but he was used in a more central position at Chelsea under both Roberto di Matteo and Rafa Benitez.
This proved to be a master stroke, as the Spaniard dominated the matches with innovation, vision, and goalscoring abilities. He has been one of the leading assist makers in Europe over the last five years. However, since his move to United, Mata has been used out wide by David Moyes.
This is largely because of the presence of Wayne Rooney, who likes to play in a similar position to Mata. The Spaniard has shown the first signs of unrest after claiming that he wants to play in the central position behind the striker.
The 25-year-old was crucial in the 3-0 win for United against West Brom, in a match that finally went the way the William Hill match betting predicted for United. This was only the fourth win of the New Year for the club. Mata was not on the scoresheet, but he was brilliant in all areas of the pitch. Moyes was in full praise of the 25-year-old after the encounter.
United have several key matches coming up in the next few weeks including the visit of Liverpool and Manchester City to Old Trafford.
“I love to play between the lines. Right now I am playing on the right but to honest I don’t see myself as a proper winger. I like to play between the lines as a No. 10. [When I] come inside, that is where I feel comfortable to play, to keep in touch with the ball because I love to play in possession and with the ball,” said Mata after the West Brom win. Prior to the match, Moyes had sent an emotional letter to the fans thanking them for their support.