Mata wants Real Madrid target De Gea to stay at Manchester United
Juan Mata insists he wants Manchester United team mate David De Gea to be happy as the goalkeeper edges closer to a summer transfer to Real Madrid.
It was reported earlier this month that De Gea - who enters the final year of his contract this summer and has declined an extension - has told United he wants to move to Santiago Bernabeu, attracted by the prestige of the Spanish giants and the lure of returning to his home city.
And while he wants to keep playing alongside De Gea, Mata believes his team mate must make the best decision for himself.
"Lots of people ask me about De Gea. He's a friend and I want him to be happy," he told Marca.
"He's currently one of the best goalkeepers in the world. From a selfish point of view, I would want to have him in my team."
Mata is also backing new coach Rafa Benitez to be a success at Madrid, having worked with him to great effect for a season at Chelsea.
"I had him at Chelsea and we won the Europa League. It was a great campaign, my best in terms of statistics," Mata added.
"Benitez knows how to get the most out of every player and get them performing to their best. Benitez was key for me."
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