Juan Mata has signed a new two-year deal with Manchester United, with the option of a further year after that.
The 31-year-old had looked likely to leave Old Trafford when his previous deal expire at the end of June, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has decided he wants to keep him around for another couple of years.
Mata is by no means a starter with United, but his vast experience seems to have been a key factor in United offering him the chance to stay on.
“It is a real honour to continue to represent this amazing club and our incredible fans," Mata said in a a statement on the club's website.
"I have been at Manchester United for five years and I am proud to call Old Trafford my home.
“I am looking forward to working with Ole and his fantastic coaching staff; the vision that they have for the club is truly exciting and I am so happy that I will be a part of that.”
Mata was a club-record signing when he signed from Chelsea for £37m back in January 2014, and he's won the Europa League, FA Cup and EFL Cup during his time with the club.
“Juan is the ultimate professional and one of the most intelligent players I have worked with," said Solskjaer. "He is a great example to our younger players in his approach. He understands what it means to be a Manchester United player and has embraced everything about this great club.
“As well as everything he brings on the pitch, we have some fantastic young players here and I know that Juan’s vast experience will help them to reach their potential over the coming seasons.
"I am delighted that he has signed a new contract, as I know that his talent and mentality will be invaluable to the squad.”
