You know what makes a true football legend? It's not just the trophies or the goals. It's how they treat the players around them. And Manchester United icon Juan Mata keeps proving he's one of the good guys.
Motherwell star Oscar Priestman has opened up about playing alongside Mata at Western Sydney Wanderers. The 22-year-old Australian midfielder couldn't believe his luck sitting next to one of football's most decorated players in the dressing room.
"It was great. He is an unbelievable human being, unbelievable person, unbelievable footballer," Priestman said. The young star soaked up every bit of wisdom Mata shared, from stories about his incredible career to little tips that only someone who's won everything can give.
Think about it - here's a player who won the World Cup, Champions League, Europa League, and pretty much everything else. And he's taking time to mentor a young Australian player. That's class.
A Pattern of Helping Young Players
This isn't the first time we've heard stories like this about Mata. Remember when Daniel James joined United for £15 million back in 2019? Mata did exactly the same thing.
James revealed that Mata sat next to him on his first day and handed him his phone number. "If you need anything, I'm here," Mata told him. For a young player making a massive move, that kind of support is priceless.
Mata spent eight years at United after his £37 million move from Chelsea in 2014. He won the FA Cup, League Cup, and Europa League at Old Trafford. Not a bad haul for someone who always put the team first.
Still Making an Impact Down Under
Now 37, Mata's taking his talents around the world. After leaving United in 2022, he played for Galatasaray in Turkey, then Vissel Kobe in Japan. He spent last season at Western Sydney Wanderers before joining Melbourne Victory.
Even when leaving clubs, Mata shows his class. He penned an emotional goodbye to Wanderers fans, praising their vision of using football to positively impact society. That's the kind of player who understands there's more to the game than just winning.
For Melbourne Victory supporters, having someone like Mata in their squad could be huge. His experience and leadership might be exactly what they need for a strong season. And for young players at the club? They're about to learn from one of the best.
