Juan Mata singles two Manchester United players out for praise | OneFootball

Manchester United have endured a troubling season in the Premier League, with Erik ten Hag’s men missing out on a place in next year’s Champions League.

For the best part of the season, the mood has been dark but there have been a few bright sparks along the way and Juan Mata, the former Reds midfielder, has singled out two players for praise.

Mata, who is currently a free agent after leaving Japanese club Vissel Kobe earlier this year, is fondly remembered by supporters after spending eight years at the club, leaving in 2022.

Speaking recently, the former Spain international has reserved special praise for two of United’s bright sparks this season, admitting he has been impressed with Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.

“[I’m] very [impressed]. I mean, I knew Alejandro, I know what he’s capable of,” the official Manchester United website.

“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.

“I’m really impressed with Kobbie. 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.

“Bruno [Fernandes] tells me he’s also a great kid. He listens. He wants to learn. He’s humble. So, he has everything to succeed.”

Garnacho started the season as an option from the bench but he quickly made himself indispensable for the manager and recently, other players have moved around to ensure that Garnacho is able to play on his favoured side.

Mainoo made his first Premier League start in November and since then, he has been a permanent fixture in the side.