From the first moment I saw him climb out of the helicopter at Carrington, I was impressed with the way Juan Mata conducted himself. He seemed excited by the prospect of playing for our club, and it looked as though he genuinely couldn’t wait to get started and play in his first game.
Before that came his press conference – which was just as impressive as that first 60 yard pass he played that led to United’s first goal against Cardiff. He conducted himself excellently, and was very respectful towards former employers Chelsea and former boss Jose Mourinho. Then he went on to talk about the pride he had at having the opportunity to wear our Red shirt, which instantly made the fans warm to the little Spaniard.
Then came his debut. He shown his appreciation to the fans once again by simply clapping as his name was read out on the team sheet, and met by cheers from the Old Trafford faithful. He finished that match with an assist leading to a goal finished by Robin van Persie. Something that has become a trend in the three games he has played in so far.
He is one of the few overseas players that ‘get’ United, similar to the way that Patrice Evra does. From the moment he walked in the place we knew what we were getting – An honest lad who just wants to play football and demonstrate his gift.
His blog is another thing that more professionals should aspire to do. Giving us an insight into a players mind after the demoralising draw against Fulham. He admitted he was disappointed, but he didn’t forget to mention the touching Munich tribute that took part before the game, and also spared a thought for an ex-teammate in Oriol Romeu who recently suffered an injury.
He’s the type of player you could build a team around, its just a shame that results haven’t gone our way so far. Lets wish he doesn’t lose faith in what Moyes is trying to achieve and he sticks around for a long time.
What else is there to say? This man just oozes class and its a privilege to watch him playing for Manchester United, and I hope it continues for a long while.
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What do you mean you hope he doesn’t lose faith in what Moyes is doing and sticks around? He signed a four and a half year contract. The is no question of him being allowed to move for another two and a half years at least. Moyes will have succeeded or been replaced by then.