Pranav Nair
Manchester United set to reopen talks with Juan Mata
According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are set to reopen talks with veteran midfielder Juan Mata regarding his future.
The 33-year-old has largely been a bit-part player this season, making just 16 appearances, scoring two goals and assisting three more. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is open to keeping the Spaniard but the decision on whether he stays or goes will rest with the player. However, an exit remains his best shot at getting first-team football.
Solskjaer has confirmed that he is in touch with Mata and will sit down with him once again to assuage his feelings regarding an extension.
“I’ve kept the dialogue with Juan and we’re due to speak again very soon. Of course he’s not played as much as he would like and that’s a decision we will make with him.”
The Norwegian admits it is not easy to leave players out, especially ones such as Mata who have been loyal servants to the club. He goes on to admit that the Spaniard holds the key to his own future.
“He’s in charge of his own future.”
Not a young player anymore, age is catching up with Mata. He is not a major part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s plans and can be considered expendable by the club.
Activating the player’s one-year extension could very well be just a ploy to help preserve his value.
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Mata is currently United’s eighth highest-paid player and earns an annual wage of £8,320,000. Given his limited role, it makes little sense for United to keep him on for that price.
Letting him go would free up wage space for us to complete more signings. A mutual parting of the ways would be the best outcome for all parties involved.
Speaking to the press last season, Mata admitted he is keen to stay on at the club. Whether he retains the same sentiments remains to be seen.
