Juan Mata begrudgingly accepts Chelsea squad rotation…
Chelsea star Juan Mata wishes Jose Mourinho would change his formation to start six attacking midfielders, but has begrudgingly accepted that it probably won’t happen.
The 25-year-old Spaniard has been outstanding for Chelsea over the past two seasons, but has seemingly fallen out of favour now new boss Mourinho has arrived. Mata started the weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Everton, but was embarrassingly hauled off after 56 minutes.
The playmaker though accepts that squad rotation is part of the modern game, but wishes his manager would find a way to accommodate all of Chelsea’s brilliant attackers.
“It is a very good thing for the club and for the manager. Being spoiled for choice is not a headache, but a luxury. All the other mid-field players are extremely talented,” Mata said.
“Finally, it comes down to selecting the team based on the combinations and team chemistry. All the players are young with a lot of talent. I wish the team formation was tweaked in a manner where six midfielders could play, but that isn’t possible.”
The Blues take on FC Basel in the Champions league on Wednesday evening, before playing host to London rivals Fulham next weekend.
Mata will hope Mourinho remains faithful to him, and blames his difficult early season on niggling injury problems. The mercurial midfielder is looking to the future, and still expects to have a good season.
“I am an optimistic player and take any opportunity that comes by way. I have just recovered from a few injuries. I am feeling much better now and I am looking forward to playing for Chelsea. I will do my best for the team; be it scoring a goal or assisting another forward,” he added.
Mata has 32 goals in 120 appearances for Chelsea, and eight in 29 for the unrivaled Spanish national side.
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