Wayne Rooney has always divided opinions throughout his time in Manchester United. There are those who believe that Rooney does not contribute enough to justify the superstar status, while there is a support for Rooney through those who think that the England international is an ‘easy target’ for critics. At this moment in time, though, very few can criticize the decision taken by José Mourinho to drop Rooney in favour of Juan Mata, who currently earns around £150,000-a-week.
The Spaniard was heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford once Mourinho was unveiled as the new United boss. After all, Mata suffered heavily under Mourinho during their time at Chelsea. Mata, though, was a surprising inclusion in favour of Rooney for the game against Leicester City. After three consecutive defeats in all competitions, United were in need of a change and new ideas. Mata provided them to perfection whereas Rooney was struggling to fit into the team.
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Unable to find Best Position
Rooney cannot be criticized as the England international has been juggled around various positions. It takes a while and several games before a player feels comfortable in a position. Mata is also a similar story. He was used out wide in the entirety of last season, but a more central position in recent games has produced a huge turnaround. While the Spaniard is a natural born playmaker, Rooney is someone who is struggling to identify his best position even at the age of 30.
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Better Service to the Forwards
Rooney has a shot accuracy of just 60% this campaign whereas Mata has an incredible 88%. The Spaniard also has a slightly better pass accuracy of 89% compared to 87% of Rooney.
Even though Rooney has a significant advantage when it comes to chances created (12 in 7 games), Mata can point out to the lack of a regular game time early on in the campaign as a reason for his mediocre return of 5 chances created in six games.
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Age a Potential Factor
Mata has been much more influential while playing in a central role than in a wider position. Mata is not the youngest player, but it seems that the time of Rooney – and 30 years of age – at United may have come to an end. United may struggle to sell the player, who has a contract until the end of the 2018-19 season, after 12 months for any substantial transfer fee. This, however, may not be on the minds of United straightaway.
Rooney may have to be satisfied with opportunities here and there for the time being. Of course, it may not be long before Rooney – being the top professional he is – gets back into the starting line-up. Now, it is just a ‘Mata’ of getting results and Juan seems to be the perfect fit.