Juan Mata

Juan Manuel Mata García was born on April 28, 1988, in the city of Burgos, Spain. Mata began his youth football career at Real Oviedo, before joining Real Madrid's youth setup, La Fabrica, at the age of 15. Known for his small stature, technical ability, and midfield versatility, Mata developed quickly in Madrid’s academy and was soon making strides towards professional football.

Juan Mata made his professional debut with Valencia CF on March 3, 2007, in a La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Mata was a regular in the Valencia squad, known for his creative playmaking skills and scoring ability. Over the following seasons, he established himself as a key player for the club, contributing significantly to their offensive play.

On September 14, 2008, Juan Mata scored his first La Liga goal for Valencia in a match against Deportivo La Coruña, in which his team secured a 4-2 victory. This goal marked the beginning of Mata's emergence as one of Valencia's main offensive threats, and he continued to develop his reputation as one of the promising young talents in Spanish football.

Juan Mata transferred to Chelsea FC on August 24, 2011, signing for a reported fee of around €28 million. Mata quickly became an integral part of the Chelsea squad, wearing the number 10 jersey and contributing to the team's success with his vision, passing, and consistent performance on the field. He was instrumental in Chelsea’s attacking strategies and contributed significantly to their achievements.

On May 19, 2012, Juan Mata played a crucial role in Chelsea's UEFA Champions League win against Bayern Munich, assisting Didier Drogba's equalizer in the final, which led to a 1-1 draw and subsequent penalty shootout, where Chelsea emerged victorious. Mata's playmaking throughout the tournament was essential in Chelsea securing their first-ever Champions League title.

Juan Mata joined Manchester United on January 25, 2014, for a transfer fee reported to be £37.1 million. At Manchester United, Mata brought his creative midfield talents and experience, becoming a fan favorite due to his technical skills and professionalism. During his time at Old Trafford, Mata contributed key goals and assists, being a reliable figure in the squad.

On May 14, 2014, Juan Mata won the FA Cup with Manchester United after scoring against Crystal Palace in the final at Wembley Stadium, helping his team secure a 2-1 victory. This victory was significant as it marked Mata's first major trophy with Manchester United, showcasing his ability to perform in crucial moments and his importance to the squad.

On October 23, 2018, Juan Mata scored his 100th career club goal during a UEFA Champions League match for Manchester United against Juventus. This milestone was a testament to his consistent performance over the years and his ability to contribute not just with assists but also by being a reliable goal scorer during his tenures at various clubs.

Juan Mata signed a contract extension with Manchester United on June 19, 2019, keeping him at the club until at least June 2021. This extension was a reflection of his continued importance in the United squad, both as a key player and as a mentor to younger players, known for his professionalism and dedication on and off the pitch.

Juan Mata announced his departure from Manchester United on June 2, 2022, after eight years at the club. During his tenure, Mata was recognized for his creativity, work ethic, and the positive influence he had both on and off the pitch. His departure marked the end of an era at Old Trafford, where he was admired by fans and peers alike.