Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata sends retirement message to Man City great David Silva

Juan Mata posted a heartfelt message to his former Spain and Valencia teammate David Silva, following the announcement of his retirement on Thursday.

Silva announced he would hang up his boots in an emotional video after he suffered a long-term ACL injury. The 37-year-old spent 10 years at Manchester City where he is regarded as one of the club's greatest ever players, having won four Premier League titles, five League Cups and two FA Cups.

Prior to his 2010 arrival at the Etihad, the silky midfielder came through the ranks at Valencia where he was joined by a young Mata in 2007. The pair, along with David Villa and Pablo Hernandez, formed one of the most exciting young attacking units in Europe.

Mata and Silva would eventually become rivals, with the former joining Manchester United in 2014. However they remained close despite that.

ALSO READ: David Silva announces retirement in emotional video after suffering ACL injury

Alongside a number of pictures of the pair, Mata wrote: "Mago, thank you so much for all the moments we lived together, it was a real pleasure to play by your side, you made us all better. For many years, we were also rivals... but my admiration, respect and affection for you never changed.

"I wish you the best always, to you and your family, and above all THANK YOU for everything you have given to FOOTBALL, and congratulations on your fantastic career. We'll miss your magic a lot."

Silva has spent the last three seasons at Real Sociedad after calling time on a decade-long spell at City. The diminutive Spaniard was honoured with a statue outside the Etihad upon his 2020 exit, marking his contribution to the most successful spell in the club's history.

Speaking about his time in Manchester on