Jose Mourinho insists Juan Mata's injury isn't serious, after the Spaniard hobbled out of Manchester United's pre-season friendly win over Real Salt Lake.

Playmaker Mata lasted just 15 minutes after coming on as a half-time substitute during United's 2-1 success, before heading down the tunnel after a tackle from behind.

Mata, who impressed in the 5-2 weekend win over LA Galaxy, was immediately replaced by Mourinho, having stayed down following a challenge from Sebastian Saucedo.

“Mata has a big ankle, but I hope nothing important," said Mourinho when asked about Mata's injury after the game. "A few days, a week probably.”

Mata took studs down the back of his ankle in Utah (
Image:
Man Utd via Getty Images)
Mata in pain, came off just minutes later (
Image:
Man Utd via Getty Images)

Matte Darmian also came off injured late on, but on the Italian Mourinho added: "Darmian's problem is not an important one.”

Antonio Valencia sought retribution for the tackle that ended Mata's night, and the Ecuadorian was sent off for a tackle from behind on Saucedo.

But Mourinho refused to condemn the experienced South American, who was shown a straight red card after an initial pause from the official.

Valencia was sent off (
Image:
Man Utd via Getty Images)
Mourinho refused to condemn Valencia (
Image:
Man Utd via Getty)

“I think the delay was because the referee asked me to change the player and I didn’t because I don't agree with the card,” said Mourinho.

“Saucedo, I think is the name of the boy, was really aggressive in second-half. That’s what happens. Some other actions were a bit dangerous.

“It’s young people with enthusiasm playing against Manchester United, but it’s a friendly match and it’s a different mentality.

“But it’s pre-season, so no problem. It's a good experience or us to play with one player less.”

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