• Premier League

Mata can become a United legend, says Giggs

ESPN staff
February 5, 2014
Mata deal a sign of the times

Ryan Giggs has tipped Manchester United's record signing Juan Mata to become an Old Trafford great.

Mata joined United for £37.1 million in January and has played two games for them, notching up an assist in each.

He believes Mata has the ability to join those ranks, telling MUTV: "I think he could. He's obviously got the talent.

"I don't want to put too much pressure on him, but I don't see why not. I think that coming here will help him with regards to playing for Spain as well, if he is playing week in and week out [for United].

"Spain have got a great side, so if we have a regular Spanish player within Manchester United, it will be great because they are such a good team at the moment."

Giggs said World Cup-winner Mata's arrival from Chelsea had given players and fans a morale boost.

He added: "The players are just like the fans. When they see a quality player come through the door, it gives them that excitement and you feel it around training. It gives everybody a lift.

"He has fitted in well. Obviously, we've played against him for the last three years and know the quality he has got. He's fitted in straight away and speaks really good English - better English than most of the lads."

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