Juan Mata has released a video message to Manchester United and the supporters after confirmation that he will leave the club this summer came out last month.
The reaction to the Spaniard's Old Trafford departure was expected, but has still created many emotions for United fans across the globe.
Signed from Chelsea in January 2014, Mata joined David Moyes' side and has worked under four managers at United since then.
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Mata is quite literally one of the nicest guys in football, and he has given us all many memories during his time in red.
However, his best moment actually came in white, United's away strip, as the side travelled to face Liverpool at Anfield. It was rebranded to another name after the game, however.
"It has taken me some time to process the change that is happening in my life," Mata said in a video he posted on social media. "This is a message that, for many moments over the last years, I never thought I would be writing but, of course, all good things come to an end and my time as a Manchester United player has just finished.
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"It would be impossible for me to express in this text all the feelings that I have been experiencing over the last weeks but, to sum it up, I would like to say I am the proudest man in the world having represented this unique club for the last eight-and-a-half seasons.
"It is something I would never have dreamt of, when I was little, as it felt too distant for a kid in Spain to, one day, play for one of the best clubs in the history of football but, sometimes, reality exceeds dreams.
"As I am writing these lines today, I couldn't be more grateful with what my career has brought to me, so far, and I am as excited as that little kid about what the future might bring from now on, the same passion for playing football as that kid remains inside of me.
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"It goes without saying, I want to thank every staff member who works in the club that makes it so special, every manager, every team-mate I have crossed paths with in my time at Manchester United. We haven't experienced the best period in the history of the club but I did have some amazing memories along the way, in the form of trophies and special moments together that will stay forever in my mind.
"Thank you all. I will miss you.
"For you, our supporters, I don't really find words to describe how grateful I am and how special you have made me feel. I feel very loved and this is something neither me, nor my family, can ever be thankful enough for. Manchester is, and will always be, a massive part of my life, on and off the pitch. I really feel like an adopted Mancunian, living here and understanding what it means to be part of this singular place in the world and its culture is something truly special. I feel I belong here.
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"I wish nothing but the best to the club and new manager. I really hope this is the start of a new era, full of great football, trophies and enjoyment for you, our fans. It's nothing more than you deserve and nothing less than what this football club should be about.
"This is not a goodbye but a 'see you soon' as I will keep coming back to Manchester, whenever I can. But, for now, from the bottom of my heart, thank you very much for letting me be a part of your history. I am truly honoured and proud and will always be one of you."
An emotional goodbye for a player that made so many fans feel some thrilling emotions.
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With 285 appearances for the club, and 51 goals, Mata was a great servant for the club during a difficult period.
Thank you for everything, Juan.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Manchester United, Juan Mata, Football, Premier League
