Juan Mata faces added competition for places at Manchester United, which has sparked transfer talk, but he is delighted to be part of a “special” club.
The World Cup-winning midfielder is among those to have seen their future at Old Trafford called into question in the wake of Alexis Sanchez arriving from Arsenal.
Mata, though, has found himself in similar situations before – most notably when Jose Mourinho, who offloaded him at Chelsea, took the managerial reins at United.
With there no exit thoughts in his head at present, the 29-year-old insists he is happy to have another top talent alongside him as proven recruits can only be of benefit to the collective cause.
Mata wrote in his personal blog on Sanchez’s signing: “His arrival is great news because a player of his level always raises the competition within the team and our competitiveness.
“He’s a great player and I’m sure that he will help us a lot.”
Mata, who joined United from Chelsea back in January 2014, added on his own situation: “Precisely this week marked the fourth anniversary of my arrival at Old Trafford and my first game with the club.
“When you become a Manchester United player, nothing will ever be the same.
“Being part of this club is something very special and I can assure you that I keep enjoying every single game like I did with my debut against Cardiff. I'll never stop thanking you for your support day after day. Thanks to you, being part of this club is really special.”
Mata has been linked with a return to former club Valencia during the winter transfer window.
He is among those at Old Trafford set to be out of contract at the end of the season, although his deal does include a 12-month option which is expected to be triggered.
Mata has made 172 appearances for United to date, netting 39 goals.