Jose Mourinho is not a big fan of Juan Mata as per many pundits, fans, football experts and managers. The Portuguese manager has further given rise to speculations regarding the Spaniard’s future after he put him on field at the 63rd minute only to withdraw him at the 93rd minute.
Juan Mata obviously was not happy and was probably a little embarrassed and humiliated. However, Mourinho has explained the reason behind the substitution and it does make sense. He informed the media that the reason for substitution was to kill time and to get the tallest possible team to defend against set pieces.
“I did something that was not nice to do which was take off Mata in the last minute – now he understands what I do, he’s fine,” said Mourinho after the game.
“I couldn’t take off Fellaini or Ibra. Fellaini and Ibra they were very important to be on the pitch for Rory Delap’s throw-ins, and we want to win the game.
“The rules allow six changes, I had made five and I wanted to stop the game.
“I need to take off the smallest player because we were expecting a lot of long balls. He is the smallest one.
“But I think he played very well. He gave me exactly what I needed. We want to win and everyone is happy in the end.”
Nonetheless, the on and off substitution by Mourinho has fueled speculation if the manager feels Juan Mata to have a long-term future at the club or not. Especially considering the arrival of Paul Pogba, United may feel they are well off in terms of midfielders but Juan Mata’s creativity could yet be used by the Portuguese.