Juan Mata is hoping a strong season at Manchester United will help him regain a place in the Spain team that is now led by Luis Enrique. A 2010 World Cup winner and 2012 European champion, Mata only featured once for Spain under Lopetegui, in a 2-2 friendly draw with England in November 2016.
On Monday, former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique was announced as the full-time replacement for Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked on the eve of the World Cup following his decision to coach Real Madrid next season, despite having a contract with the national team.
“I will do everything in my power to return to the national team,” the 30-year-old midfielder, who has scored 10 goals in 41 appearances for Spain, said to Marca. “I hope the new coach will count on me because I’m going to do everything possible to go back. I would love to help Spain become champions again.”
Mata is a fan of Spain’s new coach, who guided Barca to nine trophies in his three campaigns in charge of the first team, including a treble in his first season at the helm. Mata, who joined United from Chelsea in January 2014, made 36 starts in all competitions for the Red Devils last season, including 23 in the Premier League.