Juan Mata: Manchester United midfielder pays emotional farewell as he leaves club

Juan Mata paid an emotional farewell to Manchester United in a video message.

The former Spain international left United after a year.

Mata wrote that sometimes reality surpasses dreams.

In an accompanying video on his social media account, he added: "All good things come to an end. I really feel like an adopted Mancunian."

Mata played for the club for eight and a half seasons and scored 51 goals.

He won three cups but failed to win the title at his previous club. He wasn't able to win the premier league title.

Mata was one of three players to leave the club as new manager Eric ten Hag began his rebuild of the club.

Their departures were officially confirmed when United announced their list of retained players on Friday.

Mata said that he would always be one of the people.

I am proud to have been a part of this unique club.

I wouldn't have dreamed of that when I was small. It was too far away for a kid in Spain to one day play for one of the best clubs.

Mata signed a one-year contract extension in July of last year, but he only played in seven games in the league in the next two years.

"We haven't experienced the best period in the history of the club, but we did have some amazing memories along the way in the form of trophies and special moments," he said.

I hope this is an era of great football, trophies and enjoyment for our fans, and I wish nothing but the best for the club and the new manager.