Spanish · Burgos, Spain · Born 28 April 1988Spanish attacking midfielder/winger who won the World Cup (2010) and European Championship (2012), known for technical ability and creativity at top clubs.
Juan Manuel Mata García was born in Burgos, Spain in 1988. Valencia developed him before Chelsea paid £23.5 million in 2011. He was named Chelsea's Player of the Year in his first two seasons — remarkable consistency. He was a key contributor to the 2012 Champions League and 2013 Europa League wins. Despite this, José Mourinho sold him to Manchester United for £37 million in January 2014 — his highest-profile player sale of the window. His United career produced fewer trophies but consistent individual quality. He won the World Cup and European Championship with Spain. He is widely recognised as one of the most intelligent and thoughtful footballers of his generation — his Common Goal initiative, which he founded, commits players to donate 1% of his salary to global football charities, and has attracted hundreds of professional players worldwide. He is as celebrated for his humanitarianism as for his footballing ability.
Winning back-to-back European trophies with Chelsea in 2012 and 2013
How They Played
Creative attacking midfielder with exceptional vision and passing ability
Lasting Impact
Elegant playmaker who bridged Spain's golden generation and club success
Career Honours
- Champions League (2012)
- Europa League 2x
- World Cup (2010)
- Euro (2012)
- FA Cup (2016)
- Champions League 2012
- Europa League 2013
- World Cup 2010
- European Championship 2012
- FA Cup 2016
| Club | Period | Fee | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valencia | 2007–2011 | — | 174 | 14 | #10 |
| Chelsea | 2011–2014 | £23.5m | 135 | 33 | — |
| Manchester United | 2014–2022 | £37.1m | 285 | 51 | — |
| Real Madrid Castilla | 2006–2007 | — | 39 | 10 | — |
| Galatasaray | 2022–2023 | Free | 31 | 3 | — |
| Vissel Kobe | 2023–2024 | — | 0 | 0 | — |
 Spain | — | — | 41 | 10 | — |
Spanish Athletes