Mata thanks Moyes for bringing him to Manchester United

David Moyes did many things that drew the ire of Manchester United supporters this season, but they can thank him for something, at least - bringing Juan Mata to Old Trafford.

In a wide-ranging interview with The Guardian's Sid Lowe, Mata revealed how he was courted by Moyes.

"David [Moyes] called me and said they needed a player like me who makes the team play, who could offer fluidity and provide assists and goals," Mata said. 

"He told me he thought I could play in any of the three positions behind the striker. I said, yes, I'd played in all three during my career. But in negotiations like this, it always takes a long time."

"Then came the journey in the helicopter," Mata said. "It was all a bit unreal. And then after just two days' training, I was playing for Manchester United."

Mata left Chelsea under bizarre circumstances considering he was the two-time reigning player of the year, but a change was necessary following Jose Mourinho's return to Stamford Bridge. 

"I tried to be positive and trained the same as ever," Mata continued. "The decision's nothing to do with the player. All I could do was be professional and be available."