Juan Mata: A Fusion of Football and Art
Juan Mata, a distinctive figure among former Manchester United stars, is currently showcasing his artistic side in Manchester. Nestled in the spacious Aviva Studios, surrounded by high ceilings and an array of creative works, Mata is celebrating the intersection of his two passions: football and art. This event, titled ‘Football City, Art United’, is part of the prestigious Manchester International Festival and showcases a blend of culture and sport.
From Football to Art
Mata’s journey into the art world began unexpectedly when writer Josh Willdigg observed his enthusiastic engagement with the Instagram posts of esteemed curator Hans Ulrich Obrist. A subsequent meeting at the Whitworth gallery sparked discussions on the parallels between art and football.
“Curiosity and the drive to explore new realms define both worlds,”
Mata shared, emphasizing the artistic expressions that resonate within the sport. His previous exhibition, ‘The Trequartista’, delved into these themes and has now expanded with contributions from other athletes, such as Edgar Davids and Ella Toone, who crafted notable pieces for the installation.
Standout Exhibits and Football Career
Among the standout exhibits, Toone’s large mask, inspired by her connection to a Shetland pony, and Kagawa’s whimsical depiction of Wayne Rooney in manga form reflect an innovative blend of football and artistic expression that Mata champions. Despite his expanding role as a curator, the 37-year-old remains committed to his football career, currently featuring for Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia’s A-League.
Reflections on His Football Journey
Last season ended in playoff disappointment for Mata, yet he rejoiced about Real Oviedo, his childhood team, securing a spot in La Liga after 24 years. Although he was not present for the play-off final, he shared in the joy through friends and club captain Santi Cazorla, with whom he had previously invested in the club. Mata’s passion for Oviedo reflects his deep ties to his roots in Spain and appreciation for Cazorla’s resilience.
Sentiments on Manchester United
Reflecting on Manchester, where he spent over eight years, he expressed profound affection for the club and the community. He reminisced about his time at Old Trafford, which concluded with trophies and memorable moments, even as the team faced challenges in the years following his departure.
“Even if the club has secured titles, I realize the standards here are exceptionally high, and sometimes that hasn’t been met,”
Mata acknowledged, attributing the struggles to increased competition and the necessity for top-notch coaching. He sees potential in United’s new coach, Ruben Amorim, whose energetic approach, observed from afar in Australia, has made a positive impression on Mata.
Hope for the Future
However, this transition period at United has not been without its difficulties, including the decision to allow certain players, like Marcus Rashford, to delay the start of pre-season. Mata, who witnessed Rashford’s early development, expressed a desire for him to flourish at United, wishing for a scenario where both player and club thrive together.
As Manchester United navigates a transformative phase, Mata’s sentiments reflect a broader concern regarding the culture within the club amid changes and staff redundancies. His understanding of the club’s essence has always been profound, intertwining the legacy of football with the vibrant culture of the surrounding city.
Ultimately, Mata remains hopeful for Manchester United’s resurgence.
“The club is too significant, too powerful, and too skilled to not reclaim its rightful place,”
he declared, embodying the optimism that many fans share for the future of the team. His blend of compassion for the players, love for the city, and commitment to cultural expressions through art paints a holistic picture of a man embracing both his past as a football star and his present as a cultural advocate.
