Juan Mata In Shock adidas Switch On International Duty?

Juan Mata In Shock adidas Switch On International Duty?

Juan Mata's time as a Mercurial man stretches way back to his earliest days at Valencia, but for the first time last night the Spaniard laced up in the three stripes as the European Champions took on Uruguay in an international friendly. The midfielder ditched his Mercurial V9 boots in favour of the adidas Predator LZ.

The Vapor isn't the most popular boot choice for central midfielder's, but that hasn't stoped some of Europe's best - including Juan Mata, Mesut Ozil and Luka Modric - from wearing the boots. But could Mata be seeking comfort in a more midfield-friendly boot? Of course, he could have just left his Mercurial's back in London!

It wasn't long ago that Nike and adidas were at war over Mesut Ozil. No details are known of Mata's contract situation with Nike. Given the opportunity we're sure adidas would jump at the chance to add the Chelsea man to their books. Nike would be reluctant to lose hold of Mata who's established himself as one of the best midfielder's in the world.

Playing for Chelsea and Spain, Mata is never far away from the three stripes - adidas supply the kits to Mata's club and country. The situation has similarities to the Mesut Ozil saga, which ended with the Real Madrid midfielder staying with Nike. After failing to lure the German from Nike, could adidas have turned their attention to Mata?



We'll be keeping an eye on the Chelsea man who returns to Premier League action this weekend. Let us know what you think of Mata's surprise boot switch. Join in the conversation online, on Twitter and on Facebook.