EX-MANCHESTER UNITED star Juan Mata has snubbed offers from MLS despite still being without a club.
Midfielder Mata has reportedly rejected clubs in the States since leaving Old Trafford, because he wants to continue playing at a high level in Europe.
The 34-year-old ended his time at United this summer but is still without a club as campaigns across the continent are getting underway.
Respected Spanish sports paper Marca have reported that he is ‘patient’ over what is likely to be the final chapter in his glittering career.
The former Spain winger believes he still has the quality to play in an elite league, despite playing precious little football at United over the last few seasons.
And he is said to be taking a ‘patient’ approach to his next move, but has no intention to drop down a level.
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Marca reports that he is still full of ‘enthusiasm’ – and even believes he can win trophies in the twilight years of his playing days.
Mata made 285 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 51 goals plus landed FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League medals.
He bagged 41 caps for Spain, while winning the World Cup and Euros.
However it appears he is no fan of MLS, which retains its perhaps unfair status as a retirement home for fading European stars.
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Gareth Bale has joined Los Angeles FC, while Wayne Rooney is in charge of DC United after his previous playing spell at the club.
Former Old Trafford star Phil Neville is also manager of Inter Miami, the side part owned by superstar David Beckham.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk