Benitez isn't defensive say Juan Mata

Manchester Unied star Juan Mata

The spanish forward acknowledges the Real Madrid gaffer is "strategic" in his approach but says his tactics aren't negative

Juan Mata has defended Rafael Benitez against critics who claim he is a defensive manager, after praising the Real Madrid coach's influence on him at Chelsea. 

Benitez has come in for criticism this week after Madrid conceded a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid as they attempted to sit on their lead rather than go for a second goal.

But the Manchester United midfielder, who played under the 55-year-old during his brief stint in charge at Stamford Bridge, disagrees with the critics. 

“I don’t consider him to be a defensive coach — he’s methodical, strategic and prepares for matches very well,” Mata told Cadena Ser from Spain’s Las Rozas base. 

“When a Benitez team has to attack, they throw everything into it. He is a manager that lives for football. 

“I had a very good relationship with him. When he was Chelsea manager I had my best year and he gave me a lot of confidence.” 

Mata has played under several of the world’s top managers, including Spain boss Vicente del Bosque and Chelsea’s Jose Mourinho. 

The 27-year-old is now working under Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford and says he admires the Dutchman's honest and direct approach.

“He’s very different,” the 27-year-old said of his current boss, before explaining how he reacted to the 3-0 loss against Arsenal at the weekend. 

“After that game on Sunday, Van Gaal was angry, so to speak, but I get on really well with him. 

“He is as you see him in the press conferences — a really direct and honest person, which are qualities you can appreciate. 

“He says what he has to say to your face, whether it’s good or bad. I like him as a coach. I like my managers to be good people and he is.” 

For the next week, Mata’s focus is on impressing Del Bosque and winning his place in the Spain side for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers against Luxembourg and Ukraine. 

Three points on Friday against the former will see the reigning European champions ensure their place at next summer’s tournament in France.