De Gea, Maguire & Bruno react to Mata's news
It is an understatement to say the announcement of Juan Mata’s new Manchester United contract has gone down well.
Our news of the Spaniard’s one-year deal until June 2022 has conjured up a tidal wave of goodwill towards a player who has become universally known as the nicest man in football.
El Mago, as he is also affectionately known, is now preparing for his ninth season at Old Trafford and the imaginative no.8 is more determined than ever to achieve success for the club.
Eagle-eyed followers of United’s official Instagram account will have noticed that several of Mata’s team-mates reacted with delight towards Friday morning’s announcement.
Club captain Harry Maguire was among the first to comment by writing “love this”, as you can see below, and Bruno Fernandes was also quick to show his support by posting “ohhhh yes”.
Mata and Fernandes have become close friends since the Portuguese midfielder arrived, although Juan's best mate maybe remains David De Gea and the goalkeeper predictably gave it the hearts-eyes treatment on IG.
Later, on Twitter, Fernandes shared a longer post with his followers that included a cheeky jibe about Mata's official squad number.
Take a look here...
I guess I’ll have to wait for the number 8 another year... 😒😂
— Bruno Fernandes (@B_Fernandes8) July 2, 2021
Congrats brother!! Well deserved! An example and an inspiration on and off the pitch 🤩 @juanmata8 https://t.co/kziTxCVMIu
PRAISE FROM THE PRESS
In a sign of his quality, experience and stature, the news of Mata’s contract extension was also celebrated by journalists who report on United – with many praising his influence…
Juan Mata signs new one-year deal with Utd. Right decision in my opinion. Still has plenty to offer on the pitch and has a significant presence in the dressing room too.
— Paul Hirst (@hirstclass) July 2, 2021
Mata had an impact in most games he started last season. Sad circumstances prevented him from playing more often but he performed when used. Right decision to keep him and Mata's influence extends beyond the pitch. #mufc
— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) July 2, 2021
Good news. Different type of player to Solskjaer’s other forwards and still has a part to play. Great to have around the dressing room as well, especially with a young squad. https://t.co/97vHvqw8q7
— Rob Dawson (@RobDawsonESPN) July 2, 2021
Many supporters who posted a reply on our official announcement explained how Juan can continue to help our exciting young players to develop further in 2021/22…
Donna Burke: “Fantastic news, the younger lads can learn a lot from Mata, and he still has a lot to offer this current group of players. A real gentleman, and a true professional on and off the field. I hope Juan will become an ambassador for our great club when he retires.”
Janette Rowlett: “Great news, so pleased he can share his experience with the younger team members.”
Mark Barlow: “Delighted he is staying. Congratulations Manchester United on another job done well.”
Ashley Rumney: “Good news! The special Juan stays for another year. His experience and attitude are invaluable, and his attitude and professionalism can only be a good influence on the young players in the squad.”
Hayley Williams: “He's an asset to the club, both on and off the pitch. Bring him on and you can 90% guarantee he's going to score or assist in one way or another. Great that we have one more year of him!”