Juan Mata has said that the transfer policy has changed at all top clubs, not just Chelsea, in recent years. He believes that the clubs are more interested in youngsters than established stars, as they see potential over instant success.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Mata said he has seen a shift in transfers, with clubs preferring young players for their potential to grow and market value. He added that the Blues transfer strategy cannot be criticised as it has become the new norm and said:
"I don't think it's only Chelsea. I think it's something that has changed in football. Every club now, I think, they're trying to sign so many younger players because they have potential. The potential to become better, the potential to, you know, grow as a player and probably grow in market value."
"Whereas before, probably clubs were more prioritizing signing realities, players that were already made and established. So yes, I think that's happening, but I don't think that's something that might be happening only in Chelsea. I think it's in general the new trend or tendency of football."
Chelsea do have have a player above the age of 27 in the squad and are the youngest side in the Premier League.
Juan Mata on his decision to leave Chelsea for Manchester United
Juan Mata had a stunning start to his career at Chelsea, playing a key part in their 2011/12 UEFA Champions League and 2012/13 Europa League wins. He fell out of favor with Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese manager's arrival and told talkSPORT:
"It was in my third season. We had a couple of changes in the club, with players and the coach. I mean, it was a fact that I didn't play as much as I was used to, and I was, of course, not happy with that situation coming from those two seasons. I tried to keep going."
"I stayed professional. I, of course, respected the players that were playing at the time. It came to a finish because in December, I had the opportunity to go to Manchester United, and you know, we both, Chels and myself, thought that was the best option, and also when you have the opportunity to play for a club like United, I think it's difficult to say no."
Juan Mata scored 33 goals and assisted 53 times in his 135 matches for the Blues. He moved to Manchester United for £37.1 million in January 2014, playing 285 times for the club, scoring 51 goals and assisting 44.