Juan Mata is hoping a strong season at Manchester United will help him regain a place in the Spain team that is now led by Luis Enrique.
A 2010 World Cup winner and 2012 European champion, Mata only featured once for Spain under Lopetegui, in a 2-2 friendly draw with England in November 2016.
“I will do everything in my power to return to the national team,” the 30-year-old midfielder, who has scored 10 goals in 41 appearances for Spain, said to Marca. “I hope the new coach will count on me because I’m going to do everything possible to go back. I would love to help Spain become champions again.”
Mata, who joined United from Chelsea in January 2014, made 36 starts in all competitions for the Red Devils last season, including 23 in the Premier League.
“I now return to work [with United] and I hope this is a passionate season, a good one for me and for my team,” head said. The aim is to win the Premier League and do a good job in the Champions League, but above all to continue to enjoy playing football. This is my eighth year in English football and I consider myself a privileged person.”
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