From the moment Jose Mourinho walked through the door at Old Trafford, there was an assumption that Juan Mata would be heading out of it.
It seemed a fair belief. After all, the Portuguese manager had deemed Mata surplus to requirements at Chelsea despite two and a half seasons in which he established himself as one of the most talented midfielders in the top flight.
As if more evidence were needed, Mourinho dragged the Spain international off in Manchester United's Community Shield win only 30 minutes after sending him on as a substitute.
The writing seemed to be on the wall for Mata.