Why Tottenham Hotspur will regret their failure to sign Juan Mata
According to a report from Manchester Evening News, Tottenham Hotspur had made an enquiry for Manchester United‘s Juan Mata this summer. However, Spurs’ interest in both the Spaniard and Frenchman Anthony Martial was rebuffed by the Old Trafford club (h/t Manchester Evening News).
With both clubs largely operating on a sell-to-buy basis, a potential return to London failed to materialize for Mata. As a result, Tottenham Hotspur became the first Premier League side to fail to make a single signing in the summer transfer window since its introduction in 2003.
Juan Mata, who currently earns a staggering £140,000-a-week, signed for London-based Chelsea from La Liga side Valencia. The 30-year-old played a key role in helping the Stamford Bridge side win the elusive Champions League. Mata is known for his passing and technique. His agile movement on and off the ball helps him drift past defenders in the blink of an eye. Mata has great vision, allowing him to provide assists to forwards playing ahead of him. He is good at holding on to the ball as well.
Tottenham have transformed themselves as top-four mainstays under Mauricio Pochettino. However, the North London side has often collapsed under pressure in key moments when it mattered most.
A prime example would be their second-half collapse at home against Juventus in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 last season. If Spurs are to hold onto their star players like Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen, they must start winning trophies.
To win trophies, one needs a winning mentality and Mata could have provided that. After all, he has lifted the World Cup, Euro Cup, FA Cup, Copa del Rey, Community Shield, Carabao Cup, Europa League and the Champions League. Spurs need an experienced figure in the midfield – someone who can have a calming effect in such key moments.
In a midfield that has often worn thin due to injuries, Mata would have been an important addition. His ability to offer a different dimension would have allowed Tottenham to unlock stubborn defensive-minded teams. Mousa Dembele, Moussa Sissoko and, to some extent, Victor Wanyama are yet to stamp their authority in Tottenham’s midfield.
Mainly deployed as an attacking midfielder, Mata can play either as a left or right midfielder. Hence, signing Mata would have boosted Tottenham’s chances of winning trophies massively.
