The former Man United man was tipped to head to Saudi Arabia but has instead decided to sign for J1 League side Vissel Kobe
The 35-year-old has followed the path of former Spain international teammate Andres Iniesta in moving to the J1 League outfit at the end of his career. Mata left United in 2022 upon the expiration of his contract, spending last season at Galatasaray.
The former Reds midfielder played 18 times in Turkey, but despite being tipped to join the majority in Saudi Arabia, he has opted for a slightly different route. Alongside a picture of himself in his new colours, Mata wrote: "Thanks for the incredible welcome, Japan! I’m here! I’ve always been a big admirer of this country and its culture, and it’s time to enjoy it here in Kobe."Grateful to everyone that made it possible. I will try my best to try to win another league title, we are in the race!Vissel Kobe will hope the arrival of Mata can help them towards the J1 League title.
Mata spent eight-and-a-half seasons at United after joining from Chelsea in January 2014. The Spaniard became a much-loved figure at Old Trafford, registering 51 goals and 47 assists in 285 appearances across all competitions. He was most recently in Manchester this summer, debuting his multi-part project 'The Trequartista: Art and Football United' at Manchester International Festival.
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