Former Spain star Juan Mata has identified three Premier League legends who stood out the most for him during his time at both Chelsea and Manchester United.
Juan Mata made a stunning impact for Chelsea after he left Spanish side Valencia in 2011 and arrived at Stamford Bridge under former Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas.
The 38-year-old Spaniard lifted the Champions League, the Europa League and the FA Cup with Chelsea before he made the switch to Manchester United in 2014.
United agreed a £37.1m transfer fee with Chelsea during the 2014 January window after David Moyes’ struggles in the Old Trafford hot seat in the 2013-14 season.
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Juan Mata speaks out on facing Chelsea legend John Terry while he was at Man Utd
Juan Mata made 285 appearances for Manchester United and the 2010 World Cup winner netted 55 times and picked up 44 assists for the Red Devils.
The former Chelsea star captured a Europa League trophy, an FA Cup and a League Cup during his time at Old Trafford before he left Man Utd in 2022.
During ITV Sport’s 2026 World Cup coverage, Mata was asked a series of questions about his playing career, including the toughest opponent that he has faced.
The Spaniard admitted his response ‘differed’ depending on whether he was playing at Chelsea or United, with the latter meaning that he would lean towards John Terry.
“It depends, when I was at Man Utd, John Terry,” he said.
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Former Chelsea star Juan Mata’s ultimate praise for Man Utd legends Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand
Following his praise for former Chelsea teammate John Terry, Mata switched his attention towards his toughest opponents at Man Utd while he was at the Blues.
The former Man Utd and Chelsea player wasted no time singling out legendary ex-Red Devils centre-backs Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic as his two picks.
“When I was at Chelsea, Ferdinand and Vidic,” Mata added.
Following his Old Trafford exit in 2022, Mata went on to play for Galatasaray, Vissel Kobe and Western Sydney Wanderers before settling at Melbourne Victory.
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