Western Sydney Wanderers Coach Criticizes Juan Mata's Agent Over Playing Time Dispute

Alen Stajcic calls Fahid Ben Khalfallah's comments 'cowardly' after criticism of Mata's limited role in the A-League team.

Juan Mata, a 36-year-old Spanish World Cup winner, has faced limited playing time since joining the Western Sydney Wanderers in September, starting only two out of five games.
Mata's agent, Fahid Ben Khalfallah, publicly criticized the club for not utilizing Mata more, calling the decision 'disrespectful' in a recent podcast appearance.
Wanderers coach Alen Stajcic strongly rebuked the agent's remarks, labeling them 'cowardly' and emphasizing that team decisions are based on broader priorities, not agent demands.
Despite the criticism, Stajcic acknowledged Mata's contributions during Saturday's 4-2 derby loss to Sydney FC, where Mata provided an assist after coming off the bench in the second half.
The Wanderers' defeat marked their third loss in five matches, leaving them 10th in the A-League standings and raising questions about the team's overall performance.