Juan Mata believes Manchester United’s four-game unbeaten run under Ruben Amorim provides the crucial momentum for the club to finally look up and build a successful season.
Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has voiced his full support for new manager Rúben Amorim and offered a strong call for Marcus Rashford to revive his career at Old Trafford, according to reports stemming from his comments to club media.
Mata, who served United between 2014 and 2022, expressed optimism following a challenging season that culminated in a Europa League final loss. He believes Amorim, ahead of his first full season, has the intensity needed to succeed.
“I think the team is good. I think the coach has just barely arrived and I wish him the best,” Mata stated. “He is young, he has intensity and passion, and I hope he will do very, very well.”
The Spaniard also offered fierce backing to his compatriot, captain Bruno Fernandes, challenging him to reach new heights. “I love Bruno. We speak a lot and, you know, I’m trying to always be there for him,” Mata said, before setting an audacious goal for the midfielder:
“So, I really hope that, next season, he scores 40 goals and he gets 40 assists, and is the MVP [most valuable player] of the league!”
Mata also addressed the situation of Marcus Rashford, who has reportedly been at loggerheads with Amorim. While acknowledging that the player he once called ‘the wonderkid’ may be looking for an exit, Mata urged a turnaround.
“As a Man United fan and as a friend of Marcus, I wish that he can succeed here because it’s his club, his boyhood club,” Mata told The Athletic.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen but if he stays and he can actually be happy and enjoy, I think it will be a win-win situation for both the club and him.”