According to The Athletic, former Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata is about to start a new journey, after he chose to join Japanese club, Vissel Kobe.
During his time with Galatasaray, Mata received attractive offers from Saudi Arabia and Dubai. However, the World Cup champion has made up his mind Join J-League, pursue Japanese culture.
Mata turned down lucrative offers from the Middle East to move to Japan to play.
Mata’s choice is reminiscent of former Spain international Andres Iniesta, who also played for Vissel Kobe until earlier this year. In addition, another former colleague, David Villa, spent a successful year with the cherry blossom club in 2019.
Mata’s move to Vissel Kobe shows that in addition to the money factor, unique cultural experiences outside of Europe are also factors that attract stars to choose their “retirement” destination.
According to GOAL, Mata is unlikely to make his debut for Kobe in the match against Kyoto Sanga in the J-League, which will take place tomorrow (September 3). The old Spanish general can welcome the field on September 16, meeting Sanfrecce away.
Bao Bao | 16:30 September 2, 2023
