Juan Mata will not be retiring at the end of the season, when his Manchester United contract expires. The soon-to-be 34-year-old will be leaving Old Trafford at the end of the season, with no indication of the club wanting to offer him a new deal.

But despite rumours of him hanging up his boots or joining the coaching staff, Mata is determined to continue playing. The Spaniard is likely to attract interest from La Liga clubs when his deal expires in the summer, and could join a team of his choosing on a free transfer.

Juan Mata to continue playing after leaving Manchester United

Been told Juan Mata will not retire at the end of the season, it's not even an option. He's now focused on Man United and then he will plan for his future – his current Man Utd deal runs out in June. 🇪🇸 #MUFC

Mata will not join Man Utd coaching staff, it's not in his plans. pic.twitter.com/7xxVI0Q1zr
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 4, 2022

This season, United’s number 8 has only made four appearances across all competitions. His role in the squad is non-existent, considering the presence of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba operating in a similar role to the veteran.

And as a result, his departure is not expected to affect the squad a lot given that there are suitable young players in the team to replace him too.

The attacking midfielder has scored 51 goals and contributed 47 assists in 277 games for Manchester United, after making the move from Chelsea.

Erik Ten Hag is expected to rearrange the squad if he becomes the Manchester United manager in the summer. And, replacements for Jesse Lingard, Paul Pogba and Juan Mata (all of whom are expected to leave as free agents) could be on the cards if the Dutchman chooses to bolster his midfield.