Juan Mata names Manchester United's most underrated player

Juan Mata thinks Michael Carrick is the most underrated player he has ever played with during his time at Manchester United. Former club captain Carrick had to wait until later in his career before he earned much of his recognition. Mata still does not believe he got the praise which he deserved. “The first one that comes to mind is Michael Carrick, because I had a chance to play with him for a long time,” Mata told the club website when asked to name the most underrated player. “I know how important he is for a team.

Was Michael Carrick underrated? 🤔

Juan Mata: "He was a fantastic midfielder and, for some times of his career, he was underrated or underappreciated - in the national team and for the club." pic.twitter.com/FmZxm3nitg — Goal (@goal) April 17, 2020

“And, from my point of view, he didn't have the media talking about him, or even the fans speaking about his importance, but it was just a joy to play alongside him. As an attacking football player, when you have Michael in behind, you know he's going to find you. Wherever you move, he's going to find you. “I joke with him, calling him the quarterback of a football team because you make the movement and the ball is going to fall into your run. It's not going into your feet but into your run, exactly what you want, to control it and keep going. “For me, he was a fantastic midfielder and, for some times of his career, he was under-rated or under-appreciated - in the national team and for the club. “Because of the way he plays, this type of player is very appreciated in Spain. He probably would have been bigger than he actually was here.” Source: MEN

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