26 August 2023 , 08:00
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For a player to leave a last impression at both Chelsea and Manchester United is impressive. But to be pretty much unanimously popular with both sets of fans, a feat achieved Juan Mata, is downright outrageous.
After making a name for himself in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge, Mata made the switch to one of the Blues' biggest domestic rivals back in January 2014. The Spanish international was signed by David Moyes and would go on to spend the next seven-and-a-half years at Old Trafford dazzling under the likes of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
And although the 35-year-old had a vastly reduced role in his final innings at the club, Mata's exit last summer still sparked an outpouring of emotion from Manchester United fans.
Mata eventually completed a transfer to Galatasaray after leaving Old Trafford as a free agent, but there was some concern that the midfield maestro could tarnish his relationship with United fans amid serious interest from Leeds.
The Whites remain one of Manchester United's most bitter rivals, so few would have relished the sight of Mata turning out at Elland Road. The controversial transfer collapsed, though, with Mata instead continuing his career overseas.
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Fast forward 12 months and Mata is once again on the market as a free agent. The veteran played a supporting role in Galatasaray's first Turkish title triumph in four years, with the majority of his 16 league appearances came from the bench.
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Mata left Turkish giants Galatasaray in the summer (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)Despite his limited game time, Mata sent a touching farewell message to fans on social media. In an Instagram post, he wrote: "I am not sad because it ended, I am happy because it happened. To you, Cim Bom fans: I am so proud to be part of this family forever.
"The atmosphere that you create in our stadium and our away games is second to none, I can tell you that. It ALWAYS feels like we play at home. You are without a doubt one of the best fans in the world.
"Thanks, from the bottom of my heart, for the love you’ve given me and my family everywhere: in the streets, in the stadium, in the training ground… You are unique and essential for the club. I wish you all the happy moments that you deserve. I will never forget you!"
While Mata is currently unattached, the veteran has given no indication as of yet that he is contemplating hanging up his boots. The former Spain international, a World Cup winner no less, could decide to play on.
It remains to be seen if an opportunity in Europe will present itself in the coming weeks, although as a free agent, Mata would be free to sign for a club outside of the transfer window.