Mata's Cantabrian connection: 'My mum burst into tears' as veteran striker joins Racing
Experienced forward Jaime Mata joins Racing Santander with family ties to the region, turning down better offers elsewhere to sign for the Segunda División side.
Former Getafe striker Jaime Mata has completed his move to Racing Santander, revealing the transfer holds special significance due to his Cantabrian family roots.
Family connection seals the deal
The 35-year-old Madrid-born forward couldn’t hide his emotion during his unveiling, explaining that his mother’s Cantabrian heritage made this move particularly meaningful for his family.
“When I told my mother about signing, she burst into tears,” Mata revealed during his presentation. The veteran striker turned down more lucrative offers elsewhere to join Racing, according to sporting director Chema Aragón.
Ready to contribute despite his age
Mata, who has previously represented Valladolid, Getafe and Las Palmas among others, addressed questions about his age head-on:
- Emphasised that “age is just a number”
- Highlighted his hunger and ambition to compete daily
- Acknowledged needing adaptation time but feels physically prepared
- Believes his direct playing style will benefit the team
The new number 17 arrives as a replacement for the injured Manex and brings considerable experience to Racing’s promotion push. Aragón stated Mata was their primary target once Manex suffered his serious injury.
Racing’s winter window deemed successful
Sporting director Aragón expressed satisfaction with the club’s January business, believing the squad is stronger now than it was in December, though he admitted missing out on signing another right-back.
The club’s ambitions remain crystal clear, with Aragón stating: “We have a dream, which is to earn promotion.”
Mata’s arrival brings additional firepower to a Racing side looking to make a proper go of returning to La Liga after years in the wilderness. For a bloke who’s been knocking them in at the top level for donkey’s years, it’s a proper bit of business for the Santander outfit.