Juan Mata Insists He Is Happy at Chelsea Ahead of January Transfer Window

Chelsea playmaker Juan Mata is happy at the West London club and is not planning to force an exit in January, according to an interview given to Talksport.

Per ESPN, Mata told the radio station he is content with his role within the Chelsea setup and, although he would like to be playing more, is enjoying life this season.

The Spaniard is quoted as saying:

"

I am happy at Chelsea. I have always felt the support of the fans, in every game, on the street, I have felt the love from them. I try to play for them, score for them and make them happy. We have great support.

I want to play as much as I can, but if you want to win titles you need 24-25 players ready to play. Anyone can play any game.

I always train my best and try to do my job the best I can. I have to be ready to play at my best at any time and that's what I do.

"

Mata scored for the Blues in Tuesday's Capital One Cup success over Arsenal, but it was his first goal of a season in which he has been largely confined to a substitute's role.

Up to the present time, manager Jose Mourinho has generally opted to start Brazilian Oscar as the side's central attacking midfielder, with the Brazilian's defensive work ethic better suited to the Portuguese's plans.

Per the Mirror, Mourinho has told Mata he must make adaptations to his game if he is to regain a regular first-team spot in his side—despite the Spaniard having won the club's Player of the Year award in two successive seasons.

Indeed, whatever he may be saying publicly, it is difficult to imagine Mata is content with his current role just months away from a World Cup that he should be attending.

If he remains a bits and pieces figure at Chelsea, there are plenty of Spanish players ready to step up and make a claim for his squad place—with Thiago Alcantara, Isco and Michu all on the fringes of the setup.

January will be a decisive month for Mata. Should he be playing a more important role by that time he will have little to worry about, but if the situation does not improve he will doubtless consider his options.

It is hard to comprehend how the 25-year-old is not being picked at times, despite Oscar's excellence this year. Eden Hazard has been far from outstanding on the left, while Andre Schurrle has been the most regular pick on the right without shining—Mata can play both roles.

Mourinho chose to drop Iker Casillas in his final season at Real Madrid and has made similarly bold calls regarding Mata. He is not afraid to take big decisions, but it will be on his head should the move backfire this campaign.