Mata wants Euro 2016 win

Juan Mata wants to help Spain to a third straight European Championships win in France next year, and discussed Manchester United teammate David De Gea.

De Gea was minutes from leaving United on Monday, deadline day in Spain, only for his transfer to Real Madrid to break down in farcical circumstances with the clubs pointing the finger at each other.

“De Gea? He seems to me to be the same as always. It’s been a busy few days but he’s my friend and I stand by him,” Mata said, AS reports.

“It’ll do him good to be here and just thing about [games against Slovakia and Macedonia]. He’ll be as professional as he has been throughout his career.

“He’s a professional and will continue to be so. He’s a great goalkeeper and any team would welcome his presence. The fans will support everyone.”

Mata was questioned about international matters too and welcomed the choice of Oviedo to stage the home tie with Slovakia.

“It’s a good choice, a place dear to me and a chance to see my friends and family. It would be nice to play there,” he said, having been raised in the Asturian town and played for Real Oviedo as a youngster.

“I got to the World Cup and I’m happy [with my form] personally. I’ve been happy with the games I played and the goals I’ve scored.

“I have the same enthusiasm now as when I was first called-up.

“This generation of players can achieve great things and repeat past successes. We want to win another European Championship.”

Tags Euro 2016 Juan Mata Manchester United Spain
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