I know most here won't agree, but I really don't believe renewing Juan Mata's contract is indicative of any negative direction the club is headed in. He's an excellent professional, with wonderful technique, who is happy to stay and help create a positive culture within the club as we move forward. Gomez will get game time, and there are few better mentors. Mata offers something our other players don't, and is still capable of having an impact, particularly from the bench. Yes many of us would prefer a shiny new toy, but I think there are some big arrivals and departures to come this summer.
We really need two teams going into this season, because we won't be able to let off the gas in the league, but we have very little chance of actually winning it. We could win the Europa League though, but to do so we need a strong squad with a blend of legs and experience.
Team 1:
De Gea, Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Diop, Shaw, Ndombele, McTominay, Pogba, Lingard, Rashford, Martial
Team 2:
Romero, Dalot, Bailly, Smalling, Young, Matic, Fred, Mata, James, Sanchez, Greenwood