Juan Mata has discussed the situation of two of his compatriots at Manchester United, goalkeepers David De Gea and Victor Valdes.
De Gea was throughout the summer linked with Real Madrid and appeared on the verge of leaving Old Trafford on transfer deadline day, only for the move to collapse at the last moment and force De Gea to stay with United.
“I knew there’d be no problems. Everything is back to normal,” Marca reports Mata telling Onda Cero’s Al Primer Toque regarding the Spain international, who signed a new contract at United shortly after the close of the window.
“When he returned and went toward the goal at Old Trafford, all the supporters applauded. They know he is a fantastic goalkeeper who has given us a lot.”
Valdes’ predicament is far less positive, the former Barcelona goalkeeper on the wrong side of manager Louis Van Gaal and bombed out of the first team set-up.
“It’s a shame what he’s going through because he’s a fantastic goalkeeper,” Mata said of Valdes.
“He has the capacity to return and compete and show that he is a great player. I don’t know what happened with Van Gaal. Only they can tell you that.”
And as for himself, Mata admitted that playing regularly under Van Gaal is what has led to his recent string of impressive performances.
“I feel good. The start of the season has gone very well,” Mata continued.
“A player is at his best when he has that regularity and the confidence to give his best.”
