David De Gea has paid an emotional tribute to Juan Mata after it was announced that the midfielder would leave Manchester United after eight years this summer.
The former Spain international joined the club in 2014 and quickly established himself as one of the most important players on the pitch during the post-Alex Ferguson era at Old Trafford.
However, the veteran is moving on in quest of more game time, having followed Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard through the door – and now goalkeeper De Gea has reflected on his feelings about his time with the midfielder.
What Did De Gea Say About Mata?
De Gea wrote posted a statement out to his social media followers, saying:
“Thought this would be a very difficult one to express into words but when I thought about it more, the main feeling I am left with is happiness.”
“This guy has been a teammate, a friend and is my family. The ultimate professional, one of the best players and people you could have grace your life. I’m so thankful to have been on so many journeys with you, happy that our paths crossed, and we shared a dressing room together.
“I love you my brother, I wish you everything and absolutely nothing but joy and success in your next stage of an unbelievable career.”
Related: Juan Mata To Leave Manchester United At The End Of Eight-Year Contract
What was Juan Mata’s Man United Record?
Mata arrived at Old Trafford in January 2014 as David Moyes’ flagship mid-season signing after winning the Champions League with Chelsea and winning the World Cup and European Championship with Spain.
He made 285 appearances for United in all competitions during his time there, appearing in all three major silverware successes – the 2016 FA Cup Final under Louis van Gaal and the 2017 EFL Cup and Europa League triumphs under Jose Mourinho.
Under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his successor Ralf Rangnick, he became a more peripheral figure, appearing only 30 times in the last two seasons.
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