Former Manchester United man Juan Mata had a strange season in Japan.
The 35-year-old joined Vissel Kobe in the J-League and recently won his second league title in as little as six months with the Japanese side.
However, Mata only featured once all season…. playing just ten minutes in the entirety of the campaign. After just half a season in Asia – Mata has decided to call it quits.
So does this mean the former Manchester United man is retiring? He confirmed his next steps in football via social media.
Juan Mata makes retirement decision after leaving Vissel Kobe
The ageing Spaniard took to Instagram to confirm his departure and also thank his most recent footballing venture. He said:
‘Thank you very much to all my teammates and all the people who are part of @visselkobe for these unique months with you.’
‘It has been an incredibly interesting experience that ended in the best possible way, making history, winning the league for the first time for our club. I’m really happy to have been part of your family at such an important moment that will be remembered forever! I wish you all the very best for the future!’
‘Of course, thank you very much to our fans, you are my most special memory of these months, and I will keep your love and respect with me forever. Incredible people, incredible culture. I’ve learned so much from you.’
He also outlined his next steps in football, which suggests he is not ready to hang up his boots just yet.
‘I’m looking forward to continuing enjoying football somewhere else, and hopefully keep winning trophies, let the streak continue!’
Former Manchester United teammates react, including De Gea and Ferdinand
Some of his former teammates commented on the post, in what were four very wholesome interactions.
David de Gea, Ander Herrera, Nemanja Matic and Rio Ferdinand are all still on excellent terms with Mata.
So what next for the little magician? Who knows, but it looks like he isn’t ready to call it a day on his legendary career just yet. Herrera put it well with, ‘More titles than the king,’ and long may his reign continue!
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/QjceKRu