Manchester United’s Spanish midfielder Juan Mata warms up ahead of the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Newcastle at Old Trafford in Manchester. Photo:Oli SCARFF / AFPJuan Mata wants to follow in the footsteps of Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs and play into his forties at Old Trafford.
Manager Jose Mourinho’s arrival in 2016 sparked talk that the 29-year-old could be surplus to requirements because the Portuguese had let him leave Chelsea in January 2014.
However, the Spanish playmaker has become an influential figure under Mourinho, whose side are second in the Premier League table.
Mata’s contract at United runs out at the end of the season. The club hold the option to add a further year and the Spain international is open to discussing a longer stay.
Asked if he can see himself finishing his career at United, Mata told ESPN FC: “Why not? I’m 29 and hopefully I can play football for some more years.
“It would be great to play until I’m 40 like Ryan Giggs.
Juan Mata To Play Into 40s
