Arsene Wenger: Juan Mata’s move to Man United won’t harm Arsenal

Arsene Wenger insists that Juan Mata’s big-money transfer from Chelsea to Manchester United will not affect Arsenal’s title chances.

The Spanish playmaker is due to undergo a medical ahead of a £37m move to Old Trafford after the Blues agreed to sell the 25-year-old to their Premier League rivals.

If we have a [title] chance it is down to our performances and only about that

Arsene Wenger

Wenger, whose side are a point clear at the top of the table, had questioned the timing of the deal, which was confirmed after Chelsea had played United both home and away in the league.

But the Frenchman insists that he does not think the move will affect Arsenal’s Premier League title chances, even if Mata could line up against the Gunners at Emirates Stadium on 12 February.

Asked if the deal harms Arsenal’s title bid, Wenger replied: “No, not really.

“If we have a [title] chance it is down to our performances and only about that, and that is what we have to focus on.

“I was asked a question, I gave an honest answer. I am still naive enough to believe that sometimes people are more interested in the ideas than about creating conflict. But no, it is an illusion.”