Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata admits he would be honoured to play for Spain in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil as the country looks to write its name into the history books once more.
Mata has been capped on 32 occasions for Spain, and he appeared once during their trophy-winning 2010 tournament in South Africa.
After winning the 2010 show-piece, Mata says Spain are looking forward to the challenge of trying to defend their title next year and admits it would be a dream to play for the ‘La Roja’ in a country that loves the beautiful game.
“It is a great challenge (to defend our World Cup title) and we all want to continue writing history,” said Mata.
“Truly, it would be a dream to play in and win the World Cup in Brazil, a country that loves the game.”
Mata, though, believes some of England’s stiffest competition will come from the country where he plies his trade.
The Chelsea man admits England have a great squad and are a threat in any major tournament.
“The England team is really very good as they have a lot of players in the best teams in England and Europe,” added Mata.
“For me they will always be a candidate to win any of the major tournaments that they are in.”
Mata also spoke of how he is enjoying his time in the Premier League following his 2011 switch from La Liga side Valencia.
“It is marvellous to play in England and I have felt the difference since the first day,” said Mata.
“I think it is important to grow as a player by experiencing different types of football.”
Spain are taking part in two international friendlies over the international break as they face Equatorial Guinea on Saturday, November 16th, before travelling to South Africa to take on Bafana Bafana on Tuesday November 19th.
