Juan Mata is on the verge of rejecting a contract at Western Sydney amid talks to join another A-League club.
During his time at Manchester United, Juan Mata was adored by fans, despite never reaching the heights that were expected of him following his transfer from Chelsea in 2014 due to not being an obvious fit.
Wayne Rooney was seen as the preferred option to play in a central role behind the forward, while Mata was cast aside to play on the wing.
Mata arrived at Old Trafford as a World Cup winner. He also won the Champions League in 2012 under Roberto Di Matteo.
The former Spain international won three trophies during his time at United, including the FA Cup in 2016 and the Europa League a year later.
Mata will be remembered by United fans for the spectacular moments he provided in a red shirt, including his scissor kick finish against Liverpool at Anfield.
After leaving United, Mata took his career to Turkey, Japan, and he is currently playing in Australia.
Juan Mata playing for Sydney Wanderers
Photo by Jeremy Ng/Getty Images
Juan Mata set to join Melbourne Victory
Mata is set to continue playing in the A-League, albeit with a different club after just one season at Western Sydney Wanderers.
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At the age of 37, Mata is enjoying his football in Australia and has not shown any signs that he is ready to hang up the boots.
According to Marco Monteverde, writing for News.com.au, Mata is set to reject an offer from Western Sydney Wanderers to continue his A-League career with Melbourne Victory.
It is understood that Wanderers wanted to re-sign Mata, who made 23 appearances last season.
The reason behind Mata’s decision to switch A-League clubs reportedly stems from wanting to go one better in the upcoming season.
Mata has been promised more game time after making just seven starts for the Wanderers last term.
A deal has not been confirmed yet for Mata’s latest move, but watch this space.
Mata jokes at Bruno Fernandes’ expense with birthday wish
Bruno Fernandes celebrated his 31st birthday earlier this week.
The United captain was on the receiving end of some hilarious trolling from former teammate Mata.
Two days after starring in Portugal’s 5-0 win over Armenia, Fernandes celebrated his birthday as Mata took to Instagram with a message and an embarrassing picture.
Fernandes didn’t share the post but Mata’s antics were appreciated by many United fans.
Mata spent two years at United following Fernandes’ arrival, but they remain close mates, even if the latter didn’t appreciate being the subject of a recent joke.