Juan Mata has revealed that he had one eye on the World Cup this summer when he decided to leave Chelsea for Manchester United.
The midfielder was in danger of jeopardising his place in the Spain squad for the tournament in Brazil after failing to grab a regular spot in the Blues' first team under manager Jose Mourinho.
However, Mata is expected to be one of the first names on the teamsheet since joining United for £37.1m.
"This was important for the World Cup," Mata said in a press conference. "The Spanish squad is difficult to get into with a lot of players fighting for positions.
"So I hope it's going to be a great opportunity for me to show the manager of the national team I want to be there and have to be there.
"Now the moment is here, I want to play as much as I can and if things go good in the last part of the season the World Cup will be closer for me."
Mata has been handed the number eight shirt.
