Mata extends Manchester United stay

Manchester United triggered a clause in midfielder Juan Mata's contract, extending the Spaniard's current deal by a season.

The Red Devils announced the news Tuesday, adding that Mata is now on their books until June 2019.

"I still feel very happy and very proud to be part of this club," Mata said. "I think everyone that belongs to Manchester United should feel privileged, and that’s how I feel.

"At 8, 10, 12 years old, I never imagined that I would play for such a club," he added. "I remember the big players - Scholes, Giggs, Beckham, Van Nistelrooy, Ferdinand, Vidic - and it felt so far from where I was playing, but now I’m here it’s a special feeling."

Mata, 29, joined United in 2014 after winning back-to-back Chelsea Player of the Year honours. The 41-time capped Spaniard has since made 172 appearances for the Red Devils, bagging 39 goals on the way to victories in the FA Cup, League Cup, and 2016-17 Europa League.