Mata: Fans deserve good derby display

Each and every Monday during the season, Manchester United star Juan Mata pens a personal blog. In his latest entry, the Spanish star looks ahead to the derby at the weekend…

Hi everyone,

We went back to the Premier League after the international break, and we did it at the place we like the most, Old Trafford, and in a way that we also like, winning and feeling good. The victory against Swansea was important because we got the three points and we clearly deserved to win.

In particular, I’d like to congratulate Romelu Lukaku for his 100th goal in the Premier League. Reaching that number of goals at the age of 24 is something truly exceptional that only the great goalscorers can achieve. I’m especially happy for Romelu, because his work for the team doesn’t reflect only through his goals. He is a great guy and he deserves it.

This week, we will keep working on a game that many people are already talking about. Of course, I mean the derby against City. This game doesn’t come in an ideal situation, for there’s quite a gap of points between the two of us, but we all know that it’s a special game. We’re looking forward to playing against them and having a good performance. That’s what our fans deserve.

Before signing off today I’d like to wish a full recovery to Pelayo Novo, a guy from Asturias, formerly in the Real Oviedo Academy and now playing for Albacete, who suffered a serious accident at the pre-game hotel in Huesca. All my support to you and a big hug, Pelayo. I also want to send my support and best wishes to Ray Wilkins, a legend of English football, who had a cardiac arrest a few days ago.

Have a nice week and, as always, thank you for your support.

Hugs,

Juan

PS: As regards to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s debut in the MLS… what can I say? He scored two goals (one of them stunning) in the team’s comeback. I think there’s a new neighbour in Los Angeles and he’s going to give plenty to talk about ;).