Juan Mata in talks to sign for hometown team Real Oviedo | OneFootball

Former Manchester United player Juan Mata could have finally found a new club after leaving Japanese side Vissel Kobe.

The 36 year old played 285 times for the club, scoring 51 goals.

Despite never really living up to expectations at United, the Spaniard was always a popular member of the team and scored some beautiful goals during his time, including a sumptuous overhead kick at Anfield.

Mata won the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League during his time at Old Trafford but also the Champions League with Chelsea back in 2012.

He also tasted success internationally, winning the Euros in 2012 and the World Cup in 2010 with Spain.

After winning the league title with Vissel Kobe, Mata left the club and refuted claims that he was about to retire.

Since then, the Spanish international has been working for United, promoting this summer’s preseason game with Real Betis in San Diego.

Interestingly, back in 2019 it was revealed that United viewed Mata as a potential ambassador for the club in the future, possibly providing an insight into his post playing career.

However, reports suggest that Mata could be on the verge of reigniting that playing career.

According to Estadio Deportivo , “Real Oviedo are working on the signing of Juan Mata for next season.”

“Oviedo continue to fight for promotion to the First Division. With two days left in the regular league, Luis Carrión’s team is sixth with 61 points. They will have to confirm their qualification for the playoff against Andorra at home and Eibar away. But regardless of what happens in the sporting sense, their sports management is already working on the future [by attempting to sign Mata].”

The move would be a dream move for the midfielder as he grew up in the northern Spanish city of Oviedo, so a return would see him represent his hometown team in what is likely to be the final chapter of an illustrious career.

The Spaniard revealed in an interview with the club’s official website that he used to go watch Oviedo play when he was a boy, so a move to the second division side would most likely be incredibly sentimental for the player.

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