You know those players who are just as good off the pitch as they are on it? Juan Mata is exactly that kind of guy. And we've got fresh proof from someone who sat right next to him in the dressing room.
Motherwell star Oscar Priestman recently opened up about his time playing alongside the Manchester United legend at Western Sydney Wanderers. The 22-year-old Australian couldn't say enough good things about the Spanish maestro.
"It was great. He is an unbelievable human being, unbelievable person, unbelievable footballer," Priestman said. "I learned so much just from little things, even stories that he has to tell."
Think about that for a second. Here's a guy who won the World Cup, Champions League, Europa League, and basically every trophy you can imagine. And he's taking time to mentor a young player in Australia.
A Pattern of Kindness
This isn't the first time we've heard stories like this about Mata. Remember Daniel James? When the Welsh winger joined United for £15 million back in 2019, Mata did something similar.
James revealed that Mata sat next to him in the changing room on his first day and said: "I know it's a big move for you, if you need anything here is my number and if you ever need to talk about anything I'm here." That's pure class right there.
For United fans looking at the club's current rebuild, these stories remind you what kind of culture matters. Players like Mata set the tone for winning teams, something that could impact United's chances of returning to Champions League football.
Mata spent eight years at Old Trafford from 2014 to 2022 after his £37 million move from Chelsea. He won the FA Cup, League Cup, and Europa League with the Red Devils before embarking on a world tour of football.
Still Making an Impact
After leaving United, the 37-year-old played for Galatasaray in Turkey, Vissel Kobe in Japan, Western Sydney Wanderers, and now Melbourne Victory. At every stop, he's left the same impression: world-class player, even better person.
When his contract with Western Sydney expired, Mata penned an emotional farewell message. He thanked the fans and praised the club's vision of using football to positively impact society. "You will always have a friend in me," he wrote.
Now at Melbourne Victory, Mata says he's "driven and motivated to help this team win trophies." He's also passionate about growing football in Australia, noting the league is bouncing back after COVID-19 setbacks.
For young players trying to make it in football, Mata's journey shows that talent alone isn't enough. Being a good person and teammate matters just as much. That's a lesson worth learning.
