The manager was sorry to see the Spaniard leave.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says that he didn’t want to sell Juan Mata to Manchester United, but wishes the attacking midfielder all the best.
Mata completed a £37.1m transfer to Old Trafford on Saturday after being given limited opportunities in west London after the return of Mourinho as boss.
The Spain international made just 14 appearances in the first half of the 2013/14 season, despite being named the Blues’ Player of the Season in the previous two years.
Yet although Mourinho clearly rated Eden Hazard, Oscar and Willian as better options in attacking midfield, the 51-year-old is sorry to see Mata leave Stamford Bridge.
“We’re not happy that Mata has left the club, we’re just happy he’s happy with his move,” the Portuguese coach told ITV before the FA Cup fourth round clash with Stoke City.
“From the business point of view it was very difficult for the club to say ‘no’.
“We’ve lost a fantastic player, but he’s in Chelsea history, Chelsea’s history, so only fantastic feelings between both.
“He’s now a Manchester United player, so we wish him good.”
Mata has become the Red Devils’ club record signing and David Moyes will be hoping the 25-year-old can rescue their poor campaign to date.
United are currently 14 points off Premier League leaders Arsenal and have also been knocked out of both the FA Cup and League Cup by Swansea City and Sunderland respectively.
However, Mata brings top-class ability and experience to the club having already win the Champions League, European Championship and World Cup in the midfielder’s career.
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