David De Gea has paid tribute to his “brother” Juan Mata after the midfielder’s exit from Manchester United was confirmed.
Mata, 34, is out of contract this summer after eight-and-a-half years at Old Trafford, all of which were spent alongside compatriot De Gea.
Following the announcement of the former Chelsea man’s departure, De Gea posted a heartfelt message to social media.
“Thought this would be a very difficult one to express into words but when I thought about it more, the main feeling I am left with is happiness,” he wrote on Instagram.
“This guy has been a teammate, a friend and is my family. The ultimate professional, one of the best players and people you could have grace your life.
“I’m so thankful to have been on so many journeys with you, happy that our paths crossed, and we shared a dressing room together. I love you my brother, I wish you everything and absolutely nothing but joy and success in your next stage of an unbelievable career.”
United have also confirmed the exits of Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Lee Grant after finishing sixth in the Premier League.
