Juan Mata jumps the gun and congratulates Chelsea on winning the Premier League title

Wins in next two games could see club seal title

Juan Mata in action for Manchester United against Chelsea on Saturday (GETTY IMAGES)

Juan Mata has congratulated his former team Chelsea on their seemingly imminent Premier League title triumph.

The Blues, who are 10 points clear at the top of the division, could win the title on 29 April at the earliest, should they beat Arsenal on Sunday and then Leicester the following Wednesday.

The Spaniard made his first professional return to Stamford Bridge on Saturday since leaving for Manchester United in January 2014.

Chelsea ran-out 1-0 victors, with Eden Hazard’s first half strike proving enough to defeat Louis van Gaal’s side.

Reflecting on the match in a blog titled ‘I feel proud’, Mata praised his reception from the Chelsea fans, before congratulating them on their impending championship success.

"When we were leaving Stamford Bridge, to catch the train and go back to Manchester, I had mixed feelings," he wrote. "I was angry about the defeat, I was thrilled after seeing some old friends, but especially I was proud.

"I felt proud of the game the team had played, keeping the ball possession, controlling the game and creating chances to score, and all this at Stamford Bridge against the leaders... As our manager said after the game, we were loyal to our football idea, and despite the score didn't show that, if we keep playing like this there will be many more wins than defeats, I'm pretty sure of that.

"Besides, the team showed personality by playing that way against such a tough opponent, who gave no space in their half of the pitch and defended with so many players. Obviously, we also made some mistakes we have to learn from in the future. But overall that was my feeling about the game we had played: pride.

"The other reason, as you can imagine, is about the reception I was given from the Chelsea fans. It was really moving to feel the people's respect and affection, and I will always be grateful for that. To them and also to the players. I thank them for such affection and I congratulate them for the title they are about to win, because it's almost done. It was nice to meet them and chat with them after the game, and also the club's staff, doctors, physios, etc., and feel their respect and friendship. Thanks to all and congratulations."