Mata makes a decision about his future
Manchester United fan favourite Juan Mata has announced his departure from Japanese club Vissel Kobe and declared an ambition to continue playing football elsewhere.
Our former no.8 left us during the summer of 2022 and spent a season with Galatasaray in Istanbul, Turkey, where he helped them to win the Super Lig title.
Mata joined Vissel Kobe in September, roughly halfway through the season in Japan, in an effort to boost their J.League title hopes.
While his playing time was limited to just one appearance, the Spaniard was part of the group that secured the championship crown.
Juan has previously shared images from his time in Japan and the cultured midfielder reflects positively on the experience, but he is now looking for a new challenge in the game.
Cultured on and off the pitch
GalleryJuan Mata has shared 10 pictures from his new life in Japan.
“Thank you very much to all my team-mates and all the people who are part of Vissel Kobe for these unique months with you,” writes Mata, via his official Instagram account.
“It has been an incredibly interesting experience that ended in the best possible way, making history, winning the league for the first time for our club.
“I’m really happy to have been part of your family at such an important moment that will be remembered forever! I wish you all the very best for the future!
“Of course, thank you very much to our fans, you are my most special memory of these months, and I will keep your love and respect with me forever. Incredible people, incredible culture. I’ve learned so much from you.
“I’m looking forward to continuing enjoying football somewhere else, and hopefully to keep winning trophies, let the streak continue!”