Man Utd injury blow: Juan Mata set to miss Manchester City and Real Madrid games

JUAN MATA is not expected to feature for Manchester United in their next two pre-season games after picking up an injury.

Valencia gets a red card for shockingly late tackle during friendly

Mata has a big ankle but I hope nothing important

Jose Mourinho

The playmaker limped off shortly after coming on in United's 2-1 win over Real Salt Lake in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Mata sustained a heavy blow on his ankle after a robust challenge from youngster Sebastian Saucedo.

Having only emerged as a half-time substitute, he lasted less than 15 minutes before hobbling off.

After the match, Jose Mourinho said: "Mata has a big ankle but I hope nothing important. 

"A few days, a week maybe."

According to the Daily Mail, the Spaniard is a major doubt for United's next two matches on their US tour.

Juan MataGETTY

Juan Mata will likely sit out Manchester United's games with Manchester City and Real Madrid

The Red Devils take on neighbours Manchester City on Friday (3am) and then face Real Madrid on Sunday (10pm).

Mata is now unlikely to play a part in either game as Jose Mourinho would not want to take any risks with his players in pre-season.

The attacking midfielder will look to target the Barcelona clash on July 27 as his next match.

In the clash with Real Salt Lake, Mata's injury sparked an unusual set of events.

Captain for the second half Antonio Valencia seemingly went in search of retribution for his team-mate.

And the Manchester United right-back was sent off for going through the back of Saucedo shortly after his challenge on Mata. 

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