‘He deserves it’ - Juan Mata not surprised by Man Utd star’s recent improvement

Juan Mata has said he is not surprised at Alejandro Garnacho’s progression in the last two years since he left Manchester United.

The 36-year-old departed United at the end of the 2021/22 season, when Garnacho had made just two first-team appearances for the club and was still a precious youth talent.

But since Mata’s exit, Garnacho has established himself as a vital part of Erik ten Hag’s side and is now closing in on a century of games for the Red Devils. Only Andre Onana has played more matches for United this season and Garnacho’s importance in the side has only increased.

But the signs were there two years ago, claims Mata, who is currently without a club since he left Japanese side Vissel Kobe earlier this year. “[I’m] very [impressed]. I mean, I knew Alejandro, I know what he's capable of, the Spaniard told the club’s website in a recent interview.

“He was already showing signs of how good he could be. I think this season he made a step forward. He's more consistent. He's performing at a very high level, almost week in, week out, scoring incredible goals. I'm very happy for him, for his family too. He deserves it.”

Garnacho is not the only teenager who has forced his way into Ten Hag’s side this season. 

Despite only making his first Premier League start in November, Kobbie Mainoo has been selected from the off in all of the last 18 Premier League games, and stands a great chance of being included in Gareth Southgate’s England squad this summer.

“I'm really impressed with Kobbie,” opined Mata. “Of course I haven't seen much of him before, but he looks like he's been playing for the club for longer than [he has].

“[In his] first games for United he already looks so mature. He looks like a player. With the ball, without the ball [he’s] focused. [He’s got a] bright future ahead.”