Vissel Kobe have pulled of a major coup in reinforcing their squad for their J.League 1 title charge this season, with the signing of former Chelsea and Manchester United midfield maestro Juan Mata on a free transfer.
35-year old Mata has been a free agent since July 1st once his contract with Galatasaray has expired, helping the Turkish giants to the 2022/23 Super Lig title despite being a mere bit-part player in the Cimbom‘s triumph.
It was expected that Mata will assume the role of Vissel’s experienced midfield general, once held by Andres Iniesta. Iniesta himself has left Vissel on August, subsequently joining newly-promoted Emirati side Emirates Club.
Mata came to the Misaki Park Stadium with an illustrious CV to his name – winner of the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain, an UEFA Champions League winner with Chelsea, and he also has two FA Cups and two UEFA Europa Leagues from his time at Chelsea and Manchester United.
Along with Mata, Vissel have also announced the signing of Hungary international midfielder Balint Vecsei from reigning Hungarian champions Ferencvaros.