Mata ‘hungry to play’ as 10-minute feature raises questions

Western Sydney Wanderers’ marquee signing Juan Mata has dispelled concerns over his fitness, declaring he is “hungry to play” in the upcoming A-League season.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United star touched down in Sydney airport early on Saturday morning, where he was serenaded by fans donning the red and black uniform.
The 36-year-old signed a one-year contract with the Wanderers for the 2024-25 season, making him one of the most decorated players to compete in the league.
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Having only played 14 competitive games since departing Manchester United in 2022, with an average game time of less than 27 minutes, concerns have arisen over the fitness and durability of the star.
Mata poses with Western Sydney Wanderers A-League scarf. Getty
Mata’s last appearance in club football was in September 2023, where he featured for 10 minutes with Vissel Kobe.
But speaking at his first press conference with the Wanderers, the Spanish national remained enthusiastic about his injection into the team.
“It’s kind of a long story, ” Mata said when asked about his average game time in recent seasons.
“To be honest, the team was doing really well when I arrived [in Japan].
“And when a team is winning … it’s difficult to make changes. It was frustrating on a personal level not to get as much game time as I thought I would, of course.
“But with different stages in your career, it made [me] realise that you have to focus on keep giving your best, even if you’re not being given the time that you want, and setting your standards, and being professional, and learning from other types of football.”
Juan Mata speaks to the media. Getty
Mata confirmed he had been partaking in dynamic team training for the past two months in England in preparation for his international venture.
“I’ve had the chance to train with a fitness coach in England followed by a stint with FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark, where I’ve been integrated into their team dynamics for nearly two months,” he said.
“I feel ready to come back, really eager to be on the pitch. I feel good and confident that it’s going to be a good season.
“It feels like a new motivation for me… I’m looking forward to this new challenge but I also am taking it as if it is my first challenge in my career.
“I was telling coach [Alen Stajcic] that I’m really excited to touch the ball again and to train with my new teammates.
“I want to enjoy football and give my best to the team. I love to play this game and I’m still hungry to play, and hopefully add to my trophy cabinet with Western Sydney.
“I saw the fans this morning and I can not wait for them to hopefully celebrate something come the first game of the season.”
Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Alen Stajcic is seen ahead of the 2024 Australia Cup Round of 16 match between Lions FC and Western Sydney Wanderers FC. Getty
Stajcic, who took over the reigns as head coach of Western Sydney in June, dismissed internal concerns over the international signing.
“Someone of Juan’s stature doesn’t just bring something on the field, it’s what he brings off the field,” Stajcic said.
“To bring someone like Juan, it’s not just a short-term thing. It’s a legacy thing.
“To have his football insight, his experience is something that you just don’t get that easy.
“He’ll be able to impart that knowledge. He’ll be able to impart his football skills to a new generation of Australian players.”
Juan Mata of Galatasaray lifts the Super Lig. Getty
Mata is expected to commence training with the team in the coming days, with the Wanderers’ A-League season set to kick off against cross-city rivals Sydney FC and new-recruit Douglas Costa.
Costa’s debut with Sydney was of little concern for the 2010 World Cup winner, who declared the match up would be a “great day for football in this country.’
“We played against each other a couple of times in Europe,” Mata said.
“Of course, we played also in big teams. It’s nice that it’s the first day, it’s nice that we play at home, and hopefully, we can get the three points.”