Pranav Nair
Solskjaer has revealed the reason why Juan Mata was unavailable for Manchester United selection
According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed why Juan Mata has not been in the matchday squads of late.
The 32-year-old was last included in the matchday squad for our surprise 2-1 loss to Sheffield United three weeks ago. He has missed the five games since as United continue to juggle with injuries.
The veteran Spaniard returned to training on Tuesday and is a part of the United squad that has travelled to Turin to face Real Sociedad.
“Juan’s been away for a little while.”
Referring to Mata’s absence, Solskjaer only revealed that the veteran was ‘away’ and is now back in the fold. The lack of pertinent details raises more questions than answers.
Mata has increasingly played a peripheral role at the club in recent years. However, he remains a dependable player who can be expected to step up when needed.
Solskjaer is a fan of the player and believes he could have made the difference last weekend against West Bromwich Albion.
“Against West Brom, you’re thinking, do we have someone there to unlock the door? If we had Juan to create that pass. Because he has done well in the earlier part of the season.”
An opportunity to impress!
With Edinson Cavani, Donny van de Beek and Paul Pogba all ruled out, Solskjaer will be ready to ring in the changes for tonight’s game. Anthony Martial and Scott McTominay too are a doubt, further weakening our attacking acumen.
Despite this, Solskjaer hasn’t explicitly revealed that the 32-year-old Mata will take the field against Sociedad. But he has no doubt that the veteran would be keen to show off his ability if called upon.
“If we see Juan on the pitch I’m sure he’ll want to prove to his Spanish fans what a quality player he is.”
More Manchester United News
- Paul Scholes insists Manchester United are not over-reliant on Bruno Fernandes
- Gary Neville names the top five Manchester United signings from the Premier League era
- Federico Valverde on Manchester United shortlist of Paul Pogba replacements
Mata is in the final six months of his contract with the Red Devils. However, the club has the option to activate a one-year extension that would extend his stay until the summer of 2022. (h/t Manchester Evening News)
As of yet, no decision has been made regarding his future. It remains to be seen if this is his swansong season at the Theatre of Dreams.
