Juan Mata dedicates Manchester United's Europa League triumph to the city after terror attack
Juan Mata declared Man United’s Europa League triumph was a victory for the people of Manchester following Monday’s terror attack on the city.
As many as 22 people were killed after the sickening events at the end of an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena on Monday night.
A minute’s silence was observed before United’s 2-0 win over Ajax in Stockholm and the players produced a professional performance in difficult circumstances.
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Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored to seal the triumph and Mata hopes the club have given the people of Manchester something to smile about.
He said: “It has been a really difficult week in the city of Manchester and we are happy to win for all the people that have suffered.
“We have won a trophy the club has never won so we are really happy.
“It means a lot as it is my first European trophy with United and after what happened yesterday it is nice to bring a trophy back for Manchester.”
Former Manchester United winger David Beckham agreed with Mata’s sentiment and felt his old club had done the country proud in Sweden.
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He added: “Tonight was more important than sport… Yes a big night for Manchester United but an even bigger night for the city and for our country.
“At a time when we are grieving for the families that have lost loved ones we have a sport that has bought a little happiness at a difficult time.”
