3) Versatility
Memphis Depay was a complete disaster for United last season. Add to that the number of injuries Van Gaal had to deal with, the Red Devils were in a real pickle and were short of options up front.
But thanks to Marcus Rashford and other youngsters United were able to sail smoothly through the injury storm. Mourinho can’t bank on his youngsters to deliver again and if he needs a to fill a position in attack he can turn to the versatile No 10.
Mata can play in several roles across the midfield. He is primarily a central midfielder but can also play on the left and the right wing. During his Chelsea days Mata was playing in the No. 10 role in behind the striker, but was also utilized on the right.
He also played on the left in his very first season with the Blues with a tendency to cut inside. Mourinho decided Mata should not be part of his plans because of his inability to win the ball back as well as his other midfield options could.
But used in the right way Mata’s playmaking abilities rival that of the best in the world.
