Juan Mata merks Phil Jones during Manchester United pre-season tour
Spaniard aware he needs to impress with influx of new arrivals
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Juan Mata appears to have upped his game ahead of the new Premier League season, but in showing off his skills on Manchester United's pre-season tour, he managed to highlight the shortcomings of one his team-mates.
The Spain international knows he will have a battle on his hands next season to retain his place in the side following the arrival of three new players who could occupy midfield positions. Morgan Schneiderlin, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Memphis Depay could all hamper his chances of a starting berth under Louis van Gaal.
But Mata will be difficult to drop based on his pre-season training displays. Manchester United are currently in Seattle preparing to take on Club America this weekend and the Spaniard is looking sprightly. The video below shows him embarrassing Phil Jones, wrong footing the defender before burying the ball in the back of the net.
What a goal by @JuanMata8! See more Tour training footage on #MUTV: http://t.co/at3jreC0gz https://t.co/38S7W5bj3o
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2015
Van Gaal confirmed earlier this week that his players must fight for their positions.
"The players have to fight," warned the Dutchman, who is with his squad on their pre-season tour of the United States.
“Schneiderlin has to fight with Schweinsteiger, Michael Carrick and Daley Blind.
“These are the players who can play in the centre of midfield.
“Darmian has to fight with Antonio Valencia for the right-back role.
“He knows that, but Valencia knows that also.
“Carrick knows it also, because at the end of the season I have told him.”
United also have pre-season matches against San Jose Earthquakes, Barcelona and PSG before beginning their Premier League campaign against Tottenham.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments