Image Credits: Getty Images
Today, Fabrizio Romano has taken to X to confirm the new signing of a former Manchester United star by Western Sydney Wanderers.
Last season the Wanderers came seventh overall which was a step down from their previous fourth place in the 2022/23 season. Now the club is looking to bring in something special to help them fight for a higher finish.
The Australian side is now turning one of United’s former midfielders who has won trophies with every club he’s played at, hoping his record won’t stop now.
Of course, the man in question is Spanish midfielder, Juan Mata.
Mata moved to Galatasaray in 2022 from United on a free transfer. Whilst there the midfielder made 18 appearances, grabbing three goals and two assists, lifting the Super Lig trophy. However, unfortunately for the former Red Devil, Mata only made one appearance for Vissel Kobe when he moved to the J1 League on another free transfer. Despite only making one appearance, Vissel Kobe won the league, adding another league title to Mata’s trophy cabinet.
Since leaving Old Trafford though, Mata hasn’t quite reached the level of play that he was so well regarded for. In 285 games at United, Mata made 94 goal contributions with 43 assists and scored 51 himself. But even this was only half the level that the Spaniard showed at Chelsea, scoring 33 goals and grabbing 53 assists in only 153 games.
Now though, on his way to Sydney, Mata has turned to social media to send a message to the Australian club’s fans.
Posting on X, Mata said: “I’m feeling, again, very thankful to football for the many experiences and joy that keeps bringing to my life… Today, a new adventure is starting, and I’m super excited about it! I will keep enjoying this amazing sport by playing not only in a different country… but in a different continent: AUSTRALIA, HERE I GO!”
It continued: “I have always been amazed with your country and longed to live there… Now, I will do it in the beautiful city of Sydney. I’m joining @wswanderersfc, the only Australian team to ever win the Asian Champions League, and I cannot wait to arrive and train with the team to prepare for the season ahead. Feeling grateful and excited for this new adventure, and looking forward to trying to win another championship in a different league!
“Let’s go Western Sydney Wanderers, I’m one of you
“Ps: Friends & Family, if you are thinking about visiting, please plan in advance this time.”
No doubt Mata will be hoping to get more game time than in Japan, with the fans hoping for even just a glimmer of what the midfielder was once capable of.
I’m feeling, again, very thankful to football for the many experiences and joy that keeps bringing to my life… Today, a new adventure is starting, and I’m super excited about it! I will keep enjoying this amazing sport by playing not only in a different country… but in a… pic.twitter.com/qOfOdeE9ze
— Juan Mata García (@juanmata8) September 5, 2024
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