Some of the greatest players in history have walked through the doors at Old Trafford.
When you think Manchester United, you think success.
Okay, so life post-Ferguson has been tough. But last season, which delivered EFL Cup and Europa League trophies, is a sign that Jose Mourinho is ready to return Man United to the glory days of yesteryear.
Romelu Lukaku’s transfer proves that finishing sixth in the table doesn’t prevent players from choosing Man United.
The Belgian had the chance to sign for the Premier League champions, Chelsea, but opted to join Mourinho’s rebuilding project instead.
Paul Pogba, too, decided to swap Champions League football at Juventus for the Europa League at Man United.
It’s the Red Devils’ history and commercial activities that ensured their miserable period under David Moyes and Louis van Gaal wasn’t the end of the club’s successful run.
And with Lukaku now on board, Man United are expected to compete for the title this season.
Mata names his Man United greatest XI
Man United’s success hasn’t been lost on Juan Mata, who was asked to name his greatest Man United XI from the Premier League era.
Old Trafford has been the home of some exceptional goalkeepers through the years but Mata went for the club’s current No.1, David de Gea.
Elsewhere, David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo are chosen on the flanks and the recently departed Wayne Rooney starts alongside Eric Cantona up front.
Image credit: Virgin Money
Perhaps the best part of the video is when Mata spots that Chris Smalling, who was also asked to pick his best XI, selected himself at the heart of a back three.
“But this is a joke? It has to be a joke,” Mata says.
“I’m going to take him off so you’re going to play with ten!”
Watch the video below to see Mata’s complete side.
You can create your own greatest Man United XI by using the same 'United By You' tool that Mata used. Click HERE to try it out.
GK | David de Gea
CB | Steve Bruce
CB | Nemanja Vidic
CB | Rio Ferdinand
Mata: “Great man, he helped me a lot when I came to United, great captain.”
DM | Paul Scholes
CM | Bryan Robson
CM | Ryan Giggs
RM | David Beckham
Mata: The right foot of Beckham is probably the best.”
LM | Cristiano Ronaldo
ST | Wayne Rooney
ST | Eric Cantona
Mata has developed into a fan favourite during his three-and-a-half years at Manchester United.
The Spanish playmaker has proven himself to be a class act on and off the field and proved wrong those who thought Jose Mourinho’s arrival would spell bad news.