Juan Mata.

Mata's take on final-day win

Sunday 23 May 2021 19:36

Juan Mata says Sunday's victory over Wolves was the perfect preparation for Wednesday night's Europa League final and our matchwinner also took time to praise Manchester United's impressive youngsters on a pleasing day for the Reds.

Mata's penalty in first-half injury-time proved to the decisive moment of the match after Anthony Elanga had put the Reds ahead.

Wolves applied some pressure after the break, but it was solid display from Ole's men, who never looked in too much danger.

"I thought it was a very good performance, a lot of changes of course, so many young players who showed they can play at this level. Overall, a very good day, good result, so I’m happy," explained Juan, during a post-match interview with BT Sport.

"We know we have a very, very important game on Wednesday, probably the most important of the season. This is a good preparation, both mentally and physically, to be ready for a final."

90 in 20: Wolves 1 United 2 Video

90 in 20: Wolves 1 United 2

Watch the extended highlights from our final match of the 2020/21 Premier League season, away to Wolves...

As well as an impressive goalscoring display from Elanga, Mata was also pleased for a number of other United youngsters, including debutants Hannibal and Will Fish.

Asked about Elanga's fine headed finished, our no.8 said: "Very good goal, he’s a very good player, [with a] good attitude; he works very hard in training so I’m happy for him, for Amad, for Hannibal and everyone that played today."

Discussing the incident which led to his winner from the penalty spot, Mata insisted: "On the pitch, I felt it was a penalty, I clearly saw that the defender kicked Donny [van de Beek]. It took a little bit of time, but it was a nice penalty."

Mata was also asked about the latest on his contract situation, with the 32-year-old insisting he is feeling good and remains focused on the final on Wednesday night.

"I don’t know [what will happen]. Now, in three days, we have a very important game which is where my mind is at the moment, but I still feel I can play good football, give a lot to the team and enjoy for many years playing football like today. That’s my mentality," he explained.

"It’s not the moment now to speak about it. I know what I want, I’m happy with how I feel physically and mentally. I’m still hungry to play football for some years. The club knows that so let’s see."

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