On this day in 2014: Juan Mata travels to Manchester United ahead of record move

Mata became United’s record signing nine years ago.

Published Jan 24, 2023

Spain midfielder Juan Mata travelled to Manchester United ahead of his record move to Old Trafford, on this day in 2014.

The then 25-year-old arrived for a medical before his £37.1million transfer from Chelsea.

A few days later, the World Cup winner was confirmed on a deal until 2018 to become United’s record signing, ahead of Dimitar Berbatov.

Manchester United v AZ Alkmaar – UEFA Europa League – Group L – Old Trafford — Mata scored 51 goals for United (Martin Rickett/PA)

“Chelsea is a top club and I have many friends there but you cannot turn down the chance to join Manchester United. I look forward to helping the manager and the team be successful in the coming years.”

Mata had won the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup while at Stamford Bridge.

Manchester United v Southampton – EFL Cup – Final – Wembley Stadium — Mata also won the Carabao Cup while at Old Trafford (Nick Potts/PA)

It was a mixed time in Manchester with Mata winning the FA Cup – scoring in their 2016 win over Crystal Palace – League Cup and Europa League but United continued to fail in the Premier League.

He made 284 appearances, scoring 51 goals, before leaving when his contract expired last year to join Galatasaray.