Mourinho open to Juan Mata stay?

Juan Mata could remain at Manchester United next season, provided he is satisfied with a restricted role in the first-team. The midfielder is not one of Jose Mourinho's favourites at Old Trafford.

The 'Special One' was in-charge of Chelsea in 2014 when Mata was offloaded to Manchester United for his poor work rate. Since then, the Spaniard has been a key performer for the Red Devils, and has slowly become a fans' favourite.

Recent reports suggested that the 28-year-old could be packing his bags out of United with Mourinho unlikely to entertain thoughts of having a player he formerly rejected at Stamford Bridge.

But, according to The Mirror, the midfielder has been given a lifeline at United, should he be content with a minor role in the starting line-up.

Mata is unlikely to feature in more than one-third of the club's campaign next season.