VIDEO: Juan Mata scores from free kick blindfolded

Free kicks are an art form, born of instinct, struck with purpose. It's why Manchester United winger Juan Mata can score free kicks - without even looking.

The former Valencia and Chelsea midfielder unveiled his new YouTube channel with a video showing off his free kick skills as he sailed ball after ball over the yellow wall of plastic men and into the back of the net, while blindfolded.

It's an impressive feat and speaks to the Spanish international's intuitive ability to strike a ball, but his club manager, Louis van Gaal, will surely prefer he keeps his eyes open when striking the dead ball during an actual match.

(Courtesy: Juan Mata)