Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that it was a tough decision to sell Juan Mata to Manchester United this month.
The 25-year-old became United’s most expensive signing at £37.1million when he completed his move from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford, and with the majority of fans unhappy with the sale, Mourinho has admitted that it was a tough decision to make.
“These are decisions a manager has to make, but for me it was a hard decision. I’d love to have him in my squad, absolutely,” Mourinho said.
“But to have a player in this situation is hard. He deserves that Chelsea open the door for him [to play regular first-team football].
“I like people to be happy. I’m so sorry I couldn’t make him happy in this squad – I’m so sad with that, but I build my team around Oscar playing as my number 10.”
Mourinho was then asked about how Mata will be received when he returns to The Bridge with United, and the Portuguese-man believes he will get a good reception from the fans.
“He’s very classy. I think he’s a player that stays in the fans’ hearts and also in those of his colleagues,” added the Portuguese.
“I’m just with him six months and I like him a lot. Imagine the people who have been with him for three years. He stays in the club history – he won important trophies and people loved him.
“He will come here with a Manchester United shirt on one day and the people will show him that.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt – @AlexsArticles
