'I would love to' - Manchester United hero Juan Mata shares main reasons for Vissel Kobe transfer

Manchester United favourite Juan Mata is desperate to help Vissel Kobe win their maiden J1-League crown after getting the lowdown on them from Andres Iniesta and David Villa.

Mata, 35, signed for the Japanese table-toppers on a free transfer despite mooted interest from Saudi Arabia and several European sides. He departed Old Trafford last summer and spent one season at Galatasaray before settling on another new adventure in a country well-known to two ex-Spain teammates.

Iniesta and Villa won the World Cup alongside Mata for their nation in 2010 and both, previously, played for Kobe themselves. Iniesta made 134 appearances for the club before departing last month, while retired striker Villa hung up his boots upon leaving Japan in February 2020.

Kobe are, potentially, eight games away from winning their first ever J1-League title. They are currently two points clear at the summit and now have Mata on board to help spearhead their late quest for silverware.

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Offering his motive for the transfer, former United playmaker Mata said: "I have always been a big admirer of your country and your culture, so now it's my time to enjoy it living here and I'm so happy about it. I feel really proud to sign for Vissel Kobe.

"It's a club with great players and great friends I admire. Andres Iniesta and David Villa have played here so I'm very proud to follow their footsteps in this country."

Mata continued: "I'm really looking forward to playing in this stadium in front of your fans with the aim of winning the first league for Vissel Kobe. I will try my