Friday, 14th February, 2014
Former Arsenal playmaker Cesc Fabregas admits he was shocked to see compatriot Juan Mata shown the door by Jose Mourinho's Chelsea.
Mata linked up with Fabregas' former suitors Manchester United last month, in a club-record deal for David Moyes' men.
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The Spaniard had been a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge since arriving from Valencia in 2011, and was twice voted the club's best player.
Mourinho, however, left Mata out on one too many occasions this season, and he was forced to look elsewhere to boost his World Cup hopes.
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Still, Barcelona man Fabregas today told the BBC: "I was surprised to see Juan move there.
"I think he has been Chelsea's best player over the last two years.
"He's produced some amazing performances as they won the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup and he scored in the final of the European Championship with Spain."
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