Daniel James names Man Utd's most technically gifted player

Daniel James had plenty of options to choose from when asked who Manchester United’s most technically gifted player is (Picture: Soccer AM YouTube)



Daniel James revealed he has been left spellbound by the exploits of his Manchester United teammate Juan Mata during training.

The Wales international arrived at Old Trafford in the summer from Swansea and became the first signing of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure as the club’s permanent head coach.


James joined as a virtual unknown and was surrounded by a group of established Premier League superstars, including the likes of Mata who immediately caught the eye of the 22-year-old.

While the likes of Paul Pogba and January recruit Bruno Fernandes are largely considered United’s most technically gifted players, James revealed it is the experienced former Chelsea midfielder who has frequently taken his breath away.


‘I think just from being such an idol from when I was young I’d have to say Juan,’ he told Soccer AM when asked to name United’s best player.


Juan Mata has played a key role in mentoring Daniel James at Manchester United (Picture: Getty)



‘I think what he’s done over his career I’ve always looked up to him as a player and meeting him personally he’s such a nice guy.

‘Ball control, everything is just amazing. He does stuff in training and you’re like “how’s he done that?” He’s got eyes in the back of his head.

I’d say so (the best player technically). There’s obviously a lot of good players, Bruno coming in, Paul. So many it’s hard to pick from all of them.’

James made an immediate impression at his new club, scoring on his debut during a resounding 4-0 win over Chelsea and earlier this month he credited Mata with having played a key role in helping him settle in to his new surroundings so quickly.

‘I think when I first met him it was just a bit…weird for me. Growing up as a kid looking up to someone and then you’re playing with them and not just being great on the pitch, but off the pitch as well. He’s someone that inspires me a lot.

‘When I first met him, he came and sat next to me in the changing room and said, “I know it’s a big move for you, if you need anything here is my number and if you ever need to talk about anything I’m here.” That was obviously great for me.’