A Surprise From Juan Mata

The new Vissel Kobe player, Juan Mata. (Photo: Twitter/@visselkobe)

JAKARTA - A surprise made by former Manchester United player Juan Mata. He decided to return to football after hinting at retiring after being released by Galatasaray, late last season.

Another surprise, Mata joined the Japanese club, Vissel Kobe. The Spaniard followed in the footsteps of his compatriot, Andreas Iniesta, who once wore the Vissel Kobe uniform.

Mata's move was somewhat surprising because many offers came. Moreover, the 35-year-old also received a lucrative offer from the Saudi Arabian Pro League club, this summer.

However, he refused the opportunity to go to Saudi Arabia because he wanted to experience Japanese culture and explore his country.

"Thank you for the great welcome, Japan! I am here! I have always been a heavy admirer of this country and its culture, and this is the time to enjoy it here, in Kobe," said Mata, who chose the number 64 jersey.

"Thanks to everyone who made this possible. I will try my best to try to win the league title again, we are in the race!"

"Thank you for allowing me to have an extraordinary life experience!" he continued.

Currently, Vissel Kobe is in second place in the standings after 25 games. They are one point behind Yokohama FM who has played one game more.

Mata's name emerged after joining Valencia from Real Madrid. He later joined Chelsea in 2011.

He won the FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League with the Blues before moving to Old Trafford in 2014.

After eight and a half years, the player then left Manchester United in the FA Cup, English League Cup, and Europa League.