Former Manchester United star Juan Mata is still going strong at the age of 36.
Two years after leaving Manchester United, Juan Mata signed for the Western Sydney Wanderers this summer.
The silky Spanish midfielder made his breakthrough at Real Madrid and has enjoyed spells at Valencia, Chelsea, Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe throughout his career.
But he spent the majority of his playing days at Old Trafford. Juan Mata arrived in style in 2014 under David Moyes and went on to make 285 appearances at United, scoring 51 goals and making 43 assists.
Mata lifted the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League during his eight-year stint at United before leaving in 2022 just before the arrival of Erik ten Hag.
Juan Mata debut for Western Sydney Wanderers
Despite only playing once for Japanese side Vissel Kobe, Mata had no plans to retire this summer.
Instead, he made a move to A-League Western Sydney Wanderers, who began their league season this weekend.
The Western Sydney Wanderers kicked off their campaign on Saturday with a derby clash against five-time league champions Sydney FC and lost 2-1.
Mata did not make the starting lineup, but the former United star did come off the bench for the final 30 minutes
After his side drew level at 1-1 in the second half, Mata was pictured on the sidelines celebrating.
He was brought on to play in an advanced midfield role and potentially lead his side to victory, but they conceded and went 2-1 down just moments after Mata entered the pitch.
However, Mata’s individual performance was impressive with the 36-year-old taking 21 touches, completing 85 percent of his passes and creating two chances.
He was awarded a 6.9 rating by SofaScore as he kicked off his career at his new club.
Juan Mata is still adored at Manchester United
Mata is easily one of the nicest people in football and he was a brilliant servant at Manchester United.
He was – and still is – adored by the Old Trafford faithful and he still shares strong connections to the club and his former teammates.
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Mata has been full of praise for Bruno Fernandes since leaving the club, with the Portuguese star inheriting his No.8 shirt after he left.
Mata has also praised David de Gea after his compatriot made a strong start at new club Fiorentina.
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