The Spaniard claimed world and continental titles with La Roja in 2010 and 2012 and has lifted every European and domestic cup on offer during spells at Valencia, Chelsea and Manchester United, with just a league title now missing from his collection.
It cannot be denied that Mata has shared a pitch with some fine players and we’ve put together an XI based on who he has appeared with most often, with some allowances made so we could fit them into a solid-looking 5-3-2 formation…
GOALKEEPER
De Gea (218 games with Mata)
Juan has played more games with David than any other player.