Manchester United playmaker Juan Mata has spoken to the Spanish media about Jose Mourinho’s signings, and the physicality they’ve brought to the team.
Speaking to Marca ahead of Manchester United’s clash with Liverpool this weekend, Mata was asked how he compared to the players who’ve arrived at Old Trafford since Mourinho came in: “We have signed physically strong players but they play good football. With my body, I probably couldn’t play another sport like basketball or tennis.”
“It would be very difficult to reach a good level. Football gives you the opportunity to play without having an imposing physique. If you have the ability to think before you get the ball, or react before, you can have a great career,” said Mata
When it was confirmed Mourinho would replace Louis van Gaal at Manchester United many expected Mata would move on. The Spain international lost his place in the Chelsea team during the Portuguese manager’s second spell at Stamford Bridge, and subsequently joined Manchester United.
However, Mata has been a regular for Mourinho since he was installed as the Manchester United boss last summer, despite the number of attacking players warriving at the club in the past 18 months.
The Spaniard will be hoping to start again against Liverpool, and he’ll be hoping he can repeat the goal he scored at Anfield in 2015.
ND
