The ex-Manchester United star returns to the city to curate an art exhibition focusing on football.

Juan Mata is coming back from Manchester shortly after leaving Manchester United Credit: Getty

The Galatasaray ace left United in 2022 but will be attending this year’s Manchester International Festival.

The playmaker is known for his artistry on the pitch as he won a raft of trophies with the Red Devils as well as Chelsea where he also conquered the 2012 Champions League.

But now the former Spain international has turned his attention to actual art as he teams up with Hans Ulrich Obrist.

Together they will produce new works inspired by the Trequartista, a legendary football position most akin to a modern No10.

Juan Mata unites football and art for Manchester exhibition

Mata said: “It is fantastic to be returning to Manchester, the city I called home for more than eight years, and to be part of Manchester International Festival for the first time.

“I am thrilled to be co-curating ‘The Trequartista – Art and Football United’ with Hans Ulrich Obrist over the next two years, bringing together two of my passions: the worlds of football and art.”

Mata joined the Premier League in 2011 when he signed for Chelsea from Valencia.

The versatile forward amassed a total of 32 goals and 58 assists in 135 appearances with the Blues.

United star Juan Mata has recommended a visit to the Whitworth Art Gallery

The 34-year-old also won the FA Cup and Europa League during his three-year stint at Stamford Bridge.

Mata moved to United in 2014 and went on to register 51 goals and 47 assists in 285 appearances across all competitions.

The Spaniard also won the FA Cup, EFL Cup and Europa League during his time at Old Trafford.