Mata’s Las Palmas Nightmare Over as Contract Terminated

Jaime Mata’s disastrous spell in the Canary Islands has come to an abrupt end as Las Palmas have terminated his contract to free up space for winter reinforcements.

Goals? What Goals?

To say Mata’s time at Las Palmas has been disappointing would be the understatement of the century. The veteran forward, who joined in June 2024, managed a grand total of zero league goals during his time with the club. That’s right, absolutely zilch in the bread and butter of domestic competition.

The 36-year-old made 37 league appearances for the yellows but couldn’t find the back of the onion bag once in Segunda División. His only four goals for the club came in Copa del Rey fixtures - hardly the return Las Palmas were hoping for when they brought him in.

Clearing the Decks

The timing of this move makes perfect sense for Las Palmas, who are clearly planning a January overhaul of their attacking options. They needed Mata’s squad number available for new arrivals, with the club already confirming Benedetti as one incoming striker.

Sources indicate Las Palmas aren’t stopping there either - they’re expected to bring in at least one more forward, with potentially a third new face also on the cards. Talk about a proper clear-out!

Limited Opportunities

This season has been particularly tough for Mata, who’s barely had a look-in under current manager Luis García. When a gaffer doesn’t fancy you, there’s not much you can do except collect your P45 and move on.

In their official statement, Las Palmas thanked Mata for his “dedication in defending the badge” and wished him success in his future sporting and personal projects. Reading between the lines though, both parties will likely be relieved this particular relationship has come to an end.

For Mata, who previously enjoyed more fruitful spells at clubs like Getafe, this Las Palmas chapter will be one he’ll want to forget in a hurry. Bit of a dog’s dinner, this one.