Juan Mata

This weekend the Juan Mata standing ovation by Chelsea fans shows how we look after former Blues, even when they play for a bitter rival.
Not every player that leaves Stamford Bridge is given a standing ovation but those that play with their heart on their sleeve, connect with the fans and leave on good terms are always welcomed back.
This has been embodied by players like Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Petr Cech who were always treated well when returning to Stamford Bridge. This is despite Hasselbaink scoring against us at the Bridge and Cech signing for Arsenal.
After winning so much for the club (Cech) and being so apologetic after scoring (Hasselbaink) it is hardly a surprise.
Juan Mata also fits this bill, he played 135 games for us and was a cult hero, his creative flair and contribution to the team combined with his likeable personality made him a fan favourite.
He was part of the team that won the Champions League and FA Cup in 2012 meaning that at Stamford Bridge he will be immortal.
Mata left for Manchester United in January 2014 for £37.1m after drifting out of the new Mourinho set up. Chelsea fans were conflicted when he left and devastated when he joined a rival.

Juan Mata Standing Ovation By Chelsea Fans

Since then he has played against us a few times and has shown great humility and grace throughout, he has always been positive about his time at Chelsea.
This was shown again at the weekend when he gratefully reciprocated a standing ovation when substituted and then stayed behind after the game to personally greet every Chelsea player.
Then in the post match interview he confirmed everything with a heartfelt appreciation of the Chelsea fans and how much he enjoyed his time at the Bridge.
Its not always easy when former players return, but with Juan Mata Chelsea fans can hold their heads high!