Former Liverpool star Jamie Redknapp has declared that he believes Juan Mata will depart Manchester United in the near future, despite having a telling impact in the Red Devils’ last Premier League game, as reported by the Daily Star.
Redknapp is of the belief that the role earmarked for Mata, that of a super sub, does not suit a player who possesses far too much quality to not be playing on a regular basis.
Mata’s switch from Chelsea last January for £37.1 million was heralded as a significant purchase for former manager David Moyes, but the Spain international has failed to live up to expectations.
He has started only seven games this season since the arrival of Louis van Gaal, who clearly does not see him as first choice ahead of Angel Di Maria and the rest of the other midfield options.
While the maestro did score from the bench against Crystal Palace, Redknapp does not believe this will be enough for Mata, and thinks he will move on.
He said: “[Mata] came off the bench to save Manchester United against Crystal Palace and he must be wondering what more he has to do to play regular football at Old Trafford.
“There is no doubting his quality — this is a player with a World Cup and European Championship to his name.
“But he found himself surplus to requirements at Chelsea and now seems to be in a similar position at Manchester United.
“You have to credit him because he never causes a fuss or has a bad word to say. But make no mistake. He wants to play football.
