George Baker
Manchester United set a date to take a decision on Juan Mata’s future
According to MEN, Manchester United will wait until the season ends to decide on keeping or letting go of Juan Mata. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed that a decision on the veteran Spaniard’s future will be taken after the Europa League final.
The 33-year-old’s contract at United expires this summer. While the club does have the option of extending it by another year, they are yet to make a call regarding it.
Not a young player anymore, age is catching up with the Spanish international. 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. He has played a largely bit-part role this season, scoring two goals and three assists in 16 appearances. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Solskjaer spoke out on Mata’s future and said that a decision would be taken once the season is done.
“We’re talking to Juan. We’ve had good dialogue, good discussions and that dialogue will continue. Let’s see what he wants to do at the end of the season. He’s such a top professional, a very good player. It’s hard for me not to play him more than I have done.
There have been circumstances this season, personal issues that made him less available, but still he is a top player. That decision will be made after the season is finished.”
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Mata is currently among United’s highest-paid players. 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.
