‘Legend, magician, mentor and true friend’ – Bruno Fernandes in gushing post about Juan Mata after Man Utd release

BRUNO FERNANDES has hailed Juan Mata as the Spaniard gets set to depart Manchester United.

The popular Spaniard joined Manchester United from Chelsea in 2014.

Despite not being a regular starter, he has gone on to make 285 appearances for the club.

Mata, 34, follows Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard in leaving on a free transfer but received a glowing tribute from the Red Devils upon his exit.

Now, while sharing several snaps of them together, Fernandes offered his own fitting tribute to the attacker on social media.

He wrote: “One legend, magician, mentor and a true friend!

“I couldn’t be more lucky to find someone to look for and learn in this beginning at @ManUtd and the @premierleague.

“Was a pleasure to play alongside with you, but more than that was amazing after this time having you as a friend.”

Mata has scored 51 goals and provided 47 assists in his 284 appearances for United. 

Despite his advancing years, Mata is unlikely to retire this summer.

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While his next club is currently unknown,  have reported that he could be willing to stay in England.

And he is refusing to rule out a potential move to a Premier League rival.

Mata has previously been linked with a move back to Spain, with Barcelona reportedly interested.

However, the cash-strapped Catalan giants may struggle to cover his wages.

Real Sociedad are also said to be interested in the midfielder.