Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho: I gave Juan Mata nothing and I'm sorry

Juan Mata and Jose Mourinho

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has revealed his regret at the conclusion to Juan Mata’s Stamford Bridge career, telling Sky Sports that he gave the Spaniard “nothing” and is sorry that he didn’t make him a stronger player. Mata concluded his £37 million move to Manchester United over the weekend, leading Mourinho to admit that he is sorry at the way that things worked out for Mata at Chelsea.

“I am sorry that I didn’t make him a stronger player,” said Mourinho.

“Maybe it was something new for him, not to be a first choice (player) in a difficult moment.”

“Maybe that made him, as a man, as a player, stronger but I gave him nothing to be honest, and I feel sorry with that.

Mourinho admitted not utilising Mata in his best position, and admitted that guilt over Mata’s absence from the team led him to sanction the playmaker’s move to Manchester.

“I tried to make him play in a position where he was not comfortable. He gave everything and played some good matches in that position,” continued the Chelsea boss.

“We are speaking about a world champion, a European champion. It is difficult for him.”

“I feel sorry for that and because of that I feel we couldn’t stop him going to Manchester United, despite being Manchester United’s direct rival.”