Is Manchester United's Juan Mata the key to their rebuilding plans?

Manchester United have had a horrific season by their standards, but one shining light has been the form of new signing Juan Mata, who they spent in the region of $55 million dollars to sign from Premier League rivals Chelsea. With Mata cup-tied from Champions League football it's been tough for United to get in to a routine, but once the dust has settled, can Juan Mata lead the Red Devils to glory next season?

Juan Mata told the United website that he has settled in, and it was great to play for the Red Devils, saying "There were so many feelings. It's difficult to explain them with words. I played, I felt happy, we won [against Cardiff] and I felt the love from the crowd. It was an amazing day with lots of emotions and I'll always remember it."

It seems his close friendship with United goalkeeper David De Gea may be a key to the Red Devils' future, with the pair both on long-term deals, it's clear David Moyes will build around the Spanish duo. Mata discussed himself and close friend De Gea's spare time, saying they like to cook, however they're in need of practice, as he explained "I think we are both the worst! [Laughs]. I would like to get better. My friends have told me cooking is quite relaxing so I will try to learn more."

It seems that Juan Mata is happier than ever to be in Manchester and United may need him and his fellow Spaniard, De Gea, if they are to build a successful team once again.